Don Mattingly Leaves Blue Jays after Reaching First World Series
Don Mattingly is departing from the Toronto Blue Jays after three seasons, as confirmed by the team on Thursday. His contract expired following the completion of the season, marking his first venture into the World Series.
Mattingly’s Tenure with the Blue Jays
Mattingly, aged 64, served as the Blue Jays’ bench coach in 2023 and 2025. He also held the position of offensive coordinator in 2024. Under his guidance, the Blue Jays ranked ninth in the league for walks and posted the sixth-fewest strikeouts.
Postseason Journey
The Blue Jays reached the World Series this year, only to fall to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a decisive Game 7. Following the loss, general manager Ross Atkins did not confirm whether the team would replace Mattingly’s position. Atkins stated, “We’ll see, we’re going to work through the best way to align our staff.”
Mattingly’s Baseball Background
Before his time in Toronto, Mattingly managed the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2011 to 2015 and the Miami Marlins from 2016 to 2022. While with the Dodgers, he achieved a record of 446 wins against 363 losses. He led the team to three consecutive division titles and initiated its ongoing postseason success.
- Dodgers: 2011-2015
- Marlins: 2016-2022
- Record with Dodgers: 446-363
- Record with Marlins: 443-587
Achievements and Recognitions
Mattingly earned the National League Manager of the Year title in 2020, leading the Marlins to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. However, during his tenure with the Dodgers, he placed second for the manager award.
Future Prospects
After Mattingly’s exit, one managerial vacancy exists in Colorado, with several teams yet to finalize their coaching staffs. Mattingly concludes his career in Toronto alongside associate manager DeMarlo Hale, while his departure has been described as a mutual decision.
Mattingly’s extensive career in Major League Baseball began with the New York Yankees, where he played for 14 years. He transitioned to coaching after his playing career, spending time as a special instructor during Yankees’ spring training camps before joining the MLB dugout in 2004.
