Ex-Manager Gibbons Applauds Blue Jays as a Strong Baseball Team
Toronto Blue Jays’ Journey Continues as Former Manager John Gibbons Watches from Afar
John Gibbons Reflects on Blue Jays’ Championship Aspirations
While the Toronto Blue Jays are deep into their playoff journey, former manager John Gibbons finds himself in Houston, attending a wedding and catching games on a rented TV with satellite access. Despite the high-tech setup, Gibbons struggles to find the right channels and resorts to following the team’s progress via other means. “Is the whole country on fire again?” he quips, a nod to the excitement surrounding the Jays’ current season.
Memories of a Dynamic Era
Reminiscing about his days with the Blue Jays, Gibbons fondly recalls the dramatic 2015 season featuring stars like Jose Bautista, Josh Donaldson, and David Price. It was a time of big personalities and notable moments, including the iconic Bautista bat flip during the American League Division Series. However, Gibbons acknowledges that managing such talent came with stress. “There wasn’t always harmony, but talent triumphed,” he reflects.
Lessons from the Past Influence Current Views
Gibbons, who recently served as a bench coach for the New York Mets, appreciates a grounded perspective on team dynamics. “Friendliness among players is great, but talent and focus are key,” he comments. Drawing parallels with past experiences, he notes that teams filled with spirited personalities, like the ‘86 Mets, can still find success despite internal challenges.
Blue Jays’ Potential and City Spirit
Still considered an informed voice in baseball circles, Gibbons believes in the current Blue Jays’ potential. “The talent in Toronto is undeniable,” he asserts, mentioning how the city’s spirit rallies around its baseball heroes, especially when the team is on a winning streak. The recent playoff push has reignited the city’s enthusiasm, with a surge of blue team colors visible on Toronto’s streets.
A City Ready to Rally
Gibbons reminisces about how winning seasons used to light up not just Toronto, but the entire country. “If the Leafs aren’t going to take it, why not the Jays?” he jokes, reflecting the hope and excitement that the team’s current playoff run could rekindle the same nationwide fervor experienced during his managerial tenure.
