Want to know something CRAZY? Ross Atkins is no different than Saint Alex Anthopoulos

Like you, I feel it’s time for someone other than Ross Atkins to take the wheel. But unlike many, I am not holding a grudge against him.

While the Blue Jays are stalling, struggling and currently showing signs of regression, I believe the General Manager has not created this mess on purpose. Like any GM, Atkins wants to win and he makes choices that hopefully achieve the ultimate goal.

But nothing is guaranteed and when those choices don’t work out – even if it’s not his fault – Atkins is responsible for them; consequences to ultimately follow.

And let’s be honest: In a year when the Jays must decide if they’re going to shit or get off the toilet, the last few weeks have been ugly.

Unsurprisingly, the frustrating performance and negative feelings among the fanbase have led to a recurring discourse: The pining for Saint Alex Anthopoulos.

Hard to believe it’s been nearly nine years since the Jays’ former GM resigned from his post. AA helped forge a path to the postseason, ending that 20-plus-year hiatus. Since then, he’s enjoyed lots of success with Atlanta.

His success is deserved and one day, I hope AA is honoured in St. Mary’s AND Cooperstown. It’s a shame he felt it was time to move on in 2015, but as the expression goes, shit happens.

We all miss AA; some more than others.

Some express their displeasure with the Jays by treating AA as an exiled hero. To them, he brought sunshine and growth to the team. The Jays were a vibrant ecosystem under the watch of AA and the possibilities were endless.

But then, Mark Shapiro was hired as President and – in some minds – dark clouds formed over SkyDome. Atkins came next and while the Jays have had better regular season records than 2017-2019, the dark clouds are still there. It doesn’t help when the team has stalled in the playoffs three of the previous four seasons.

It also doesn’t help when a recent poll arranged by The Athletic of anonymous MLB executives adds fuel to the fire.

Lots of ammunition earmarked for Atkins. Lots of longing for Saint Alex.

But here’s the crazy part: Atkins is no different than AA.

Do you remember what was happening up until the 2015 Non-Waiver Trade Deadline? Did you forget about the online mob that wanted to banish AA?

Je me souviens.

Those who pine for AA now are the same fans who once wanted him fired.

All it took was two trades – Troy Tulowitzki and David Price – to change minds. Two trades that worked out immensely; reaching stratospheric levels.

And again, let’s be honest: We only miss AA because of those two trades.

We don’t miss him because the megadeals with the Mets and Marlins didn’t work out as well as we hoped. We don’t miss him because he exchanged Mike Aviles and Yan Gomes for Esmil Rogers. We don’t miss him because he felt Frank Francisco was worth the price of Mike Napoli. We don’t miss him because Kyle Drabek and Brett Lawrie didn’t live up to expectations. 

Hell, we don’t even miss AA for positive transactions, like the trades that landed Josh Donaldson and Marco Estrada, or signing Russell Martin.

We miss AA because those two trades saved the 2015 Jays from crashing and burning. One could even argue that the reason he got another GM position was because of those two trades.

Acquiring Tulo and Price saved AA’s career!

And the same thing can happen to Ross Atkins.

All it takes is a trade or two that pays off handsomely. It would be the acquisition of a player or players who ignite a turnaround and get this team to play to their full potential. Just imagine one player or a collective of great talent that shows up suddenly in the Jays’ clubhouse, fires off like a rocket and takes the whole team with them.

If Atkins can pull this off – and it could even be someone in-house that he signed or drafted – then his script gets FLIPPED. 

Those who condemn his baseball decisions and excessively critique his mannerisms will start singing a different, more complimentary song.

It certainly can happen. However, the question is will it happen? 

That’s up to Atkins. It’s his job and reputation on the line. He has to figure it out.

Atkins is at the same crossroads AA was in 2015. While I feel he should be dismissed as GM, I am also hoping/praying he catches the proverbial lighting in a bottle. I want to see the Blue Jays win more than I want Atkins to be fired.

So, I’m crossing my fingers for Atkins as hard as I did for AA.

That’s just me. Do as you wish.

ER

Welcome back, powder blue Toronto Blue Jays uniforms that metaphorically wrap me like a warm hug

Up until April 28, I legitimately couldn’t remember the last time the Blue Jays wore their second alternate uniform; the glorious powder blue kit, also referred to as “New Blue.”

We saw them in 2022 and I’m sure they were worn a few times last year, but can’t recall.

It’s like they vanished.

There was an enormous buzz when the Jays unveiled them at the 2020 Winter Fest. They were a throwback to the team’s history while maintaining a contemporary uniform design and appearance.

The compromise was delightful!

Since then, the new blue lost its “newness” and disappeared without a trace.

So, what happened?

I couldn’t find any article giving their official whereabouts. A recent Gate 14 episode suggested Nike/Fanatics didn’t include them with their controversial uniform designs.

Perhaps the reason was deeper.

The new/powder blues were worn during a time of chaos and incredible anxiety. Surrounded by restrictions and isolations, we saw them during the unicorn season of 2020 when Buffalo was home.

They were also the attire when the Tampa Bay Rays crushed Hyun Jin Ryu and the Jays in the 2020 Wild Card round.

They were prominent the following season when the Jays were literally a road team until the end of July.

We saw them again on the final day of the 2021 campaign when the Jays swept Baltimore and watched helplessly as they were eliminated from playoff contention.

So, while new/powder blue is a welcomed dose of nostalgia for you and me, they could’ve been a source of bad memories for some in the Jays’ clubhouse.

Then again, it could’ve been as simple as the novelty wearing off and turning stale.

But it doesn’t matter now!

The new/powder blues made a triumphant return last Sunday. Since then, the Jays have had a winning record while wearing them – 2-1, a winning percentage of .667!

I couldn’t be happier. Sure, the Jays won’t win every game when wearing the new/powder blues; but at least they provide a nice visual. Pure eye candy!

And we could all use a little candy. Nothing wrong with a sweet taste to counterbalance the bitterness.

If you know, you know.

ER

If your name is Kevin and you play for the Blue Jays, it’s been a tough row to hoe so far

So, as Fergie Olver would say, how about those Blue Jays?

Three weeks into the regular season and the 2024 squad has matched the up-and-down tendencies of the previous years. Frustrating losses and victories that provide hope.

Whether you’re part of the “it’s early” crowd or prefer to bang your drum and scream “make the Blue Jays great again,” there has been plenty to discuss.

And we haven’t even finished April.

Do you know who I’m thinking about? The Kevins.

Mr. Kiermaier and Mr. Gausman are having rough starts to their seasons. I am a little worried about them.

The Kevins are part of a unique fringe fraternity: Kevins That Played or Coached With The Blue Jays; KTPOCWTBJ for short.

In addition to Gausman and Kiermaier, members have included Kevin Millar, Kevin Pillar, Kevin Gregg, Kevin Smith, Kevin Cash, Kevin Brown and Kevin Seitzer (one-time hitting coach).

Safe to say that Gausman and Kiermaier have become the most popular Kevins from the KTPOCWTBJ subgroup. That’s why their early-season struggles have been unfortunate.

We shouldn’t be too surprised about Gausman. He missed a lot of Spring Training dealing with a shoulder issue. It could be a case of his arm being a couple of weeks behind schedule.

Of course, I speak as a civilian blogger who never made it past House League (s/o Thornhill Softball League). Maybe there’s something mechanical or some discomfort. Either way, we have to wait it out.

It’s not fun watching one of your best starters struggle, but let’s all take a breath and remember that Roy Halladay and Dave Stieb had dips.

All we can do is hope for the best.

Kiermaier is a different case. It felt like he hit well in Dunedin. And sure, it’s spring training; you’re not always facing big-league pitching. But it’s easy to look at his piercing baby blue eyes and be drawn in.

It’s a long season and it just started. No doubt a cheap excuse, but worthy of argument. Let Kiermaier ride it out for a few more weeks. We are talking about a player who usually hits at the bottom of the order.

And if things aren’t turning around and – for example – Davis Schneider gives the Jays cause for more starts, sabermetrics be damned, then perhaps Kiermaier is better suited to be the fourth outfielder in 2024.

A late-inning defensive replacement? A pinch-runner coming in to hopefully score a needed run? Why not use Kiermaier for that role? It’s not glamorous, but better than other options.

It’s easy to jump to conclusions. Given the frustration surrounding this team, I wouldn’t blame anyone for deciding that Gausman and Kiermaier are broken and unfixable.

But it’s early and we have to be patient.

And yes, you can roll your eyes and call me an idiot (or worse). But it doesn’t change the calendar or any urgency.

And I get it. This is the “shit or get off the toilet” season. I’m as stressed as you are. Feels like the slightest misstep can derail the season and future.

Nevertheless, we can either give up on the Kevins or hope they turn their overall performances around.

I know my choice.

ER

Ernie Clement 🤝 John McDonald

Oh, I’m definitely an Ernie Clement man.

Can you blame me? Can you blame anyone else?

I knew nothing about him when the Blue Jays first called him up last season. Took notice when he helped the team pick up a needed win against Miami. Admired him when he pitched an inning to save a few bullpen arms.

The Rochester native was part of the Buffalo Brigade™️ – those ragtag AAA players who answered the call when needed. Doing all the dirty work and helping out any way they could, while the big leaguers recovered from injuries, regained their forms or tried to figure things out.

Clement was there; ready to help out, even if that meant sitting on the bench a lot.

And now, he’s on the team and rightly so. The man played his ass off in Spring Training, forcing the Jays to put him on the roster.

Clement carries a presence that if proven true, could give him a cult status similar to the likes of Reed Johnson, Mike McCoy, Ryan Goins and the KING of the following, John McDonald.

These players are different statistically and in presentation, but have won the hearts of fans with their blue-collar approach to the sport.

We love our all-stars and faces of the franchise. We cherish them and idolize their talents. However, we also adore the scrappy, hard-working, down-to-earth athletes who fulfill a supporting role and do it exceptionally.

That’s what I’m hoping for Ernie Clement.

His “blue-collar” role is not a glamorous one, but worthy of praise. For now, his appearances will be sporadic at best.

Clement will be that late-inning defensive replacement; maybe getting an AB or two, depending on circumstances. He’ll also start when someone gets a day off, has a DH day or in Bo’s case, experience neck spasms.

Playing time will be sparse. Nevertheless, Clement will/should take advantage of any opportunity and give maximum effort.

He had a few opportunities in Tampa Bay last week and delivered overall. You saw those defensive gems, as well as some helpful ABs sprinkled in. Clement was even the Flavor Flav to Davis Schneider’s Chuck D.

His folklore grows when we learn about his journey. Mr. Zwelling recently chronicled Clement’s story – a player who loved swinging the bat and overcame the adversity of struggling at the highest level, thanks to intense physical and mental exercises.

Yet, he’s just a regular dude as evidenced by his appearance on Gate 14 last year. Combine all this with the fact he’s a local-ish guy and loves the Buffalo Bills and you have all the ingredients for an idol. 

It’s been a while since the Jays had a John McDonald-type player. Two years ago, I had hoped Gosuke Katoh would be that guy until he was claimed by the New York Mets.

Now, Ernie Clement has the chance to take that mantle and run with it. He’s doing all the little things and it’s catching our attention.

Don’t be surprised if he gets one of the loudest cheers at the Home Opener this coming week.

Maybe – and admittedly, this might be over the top – sales for Clement jerseys will equal or even exceed Vladdy and Bo jerseys. 

It could happen. All the signs are there. 

ER

Courtesy Reminder: NOBODY is forcing you to watch the 2024 Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Club

Less than a week before the regular season starts!

Kudos to all of us for surviving another winter! There’s nothing like the feeling of Opening Day when all the teams are on equal footing and have a chance at glory. Of course, I’m excited!

But some of you aren’t.

During a recent episode of Deep Left Field, Mr. Wilner read listener feedback from a fan who said they couldn’t bring themselves to watch the 2024 season, despite being a Jays fan for about 40 years.

It was heartbreaking to hear such a thing. But that sadness quickly changed to anger.

Found myself directing all kinds of rude terms towards that fan. Called them a traitor, quitter, fake fan, etc. But that anger quickly changed to acceptance.

We can’t control what other fans think. Not everyone will cheer for the Jays regardless of where they sit in the standings. Not everyone chooses to embrace the pain or wants to let things play out.

If that fan wants to sit out, they are well within their right to do so. That fan identifies the Jays as a source of stress, frustration and negativity. Rather than enduring that, the fan has decided to put their mental health ahead of their love of baseball. Can’t fault them for that.

In fact, it’s a good lesson for many in the #JaysTwitter universe.

NOBODY is forcing you to watch the Jays this season.

If you truly feel this team is going to underperform; if you believe the Jays will miss the playoffs and win fewer games than last year; if you’re angry with the front office and unhappy with the direction of the team; if you’re pissed about how much it costs to attend a match or can’t stand the music and sound effects played in between pitches and inning breaks, then you don’t have to watch them.

Simple as that.

You don’t have to stream the broadcasts. You don’t have to buy tickets. You don’t have to consume related podcasts and blogs. You don’t have to torture yourself or follow out of anger.

You are in control. FOMO and loyalty, be damned!

The pessimism and snark have been painfully present since the Jays were swept by the Twins last October. So, why go through the torment?

Instead of investing in the Jays, you could reallocate your energy to the local semi-pro/Indy Ball/collegiate club. You could also just take a break. It’s your choice and yours alone.

Just one thing:

If you choose to walk away, but ultimately return, please don’t act like you never left. Nobody wants a bunch of fans imitating Homer Simpson when the Springfield Isotopes won their league title.

You can step away. Just like Motel 6, we’ll leave the light on for you. All that’s asked in return is honesty and acknowledgement.

And if you choose to ride the wave, I’m glad you’re here. I hope the journey will be glorious, but it could be painful. Nevertheless, it will be an experience.

Blue Jays ’till I die.

ER

This is f**ked up, but I’m going to say it: Kevin Gausman SHOULD NOT be the Blue Jays’ Opening Day starter

Kevin Gausman is the best starter on the Blue Jays.

He has become the ace, the captain, the splitter sensei; everything we all hoped for when he signed with the team a few years ago. The 33-year-old is worthy to be the Opening Day starter on March 28.

However, Kevin Gausman SHOULD NOT toe the rubber on Opening Day.

It has nothing to do with statistics, a more deserving candidate, who the Jays are facing or recent shoulder issues.

Kevin Gausman should not start on Opening Day because…I’m superstitious.

Before and after every Jays game, there is a specific set of things I need to do in a precise order. One misstep or an item out of order could affect the result of the match. The Jays could/will lose if I don’t follow my pre and postgame routines.

Obviously, that’s completely ridiculous. Obviously, whatever I do has zero effect on the team. Obviously, the fate of the season has nothing to do with the actions of a random fan like me.

But I can’t help it. I have to follow my routines.

When you’re consumed by superstitions, you also start to notice phenomena that seem logical, despite having no rational ground.

And therein lies the reason why Gausman shouldn’t be the Opening Day starter:

In 2022, Jose Berrios was named Opening Day starter and his season was fucked up. In 2023, Alek Manoah was named Opening Day starter and his season was really fucked up.

Therefore, if Kevin starts on March 28, he could potentially bring bad luck to his season. It’s as if there’s a hex on whoever takes the mound for the Jays that particular day – an Opening Day curse.

Nobody wants that!

So, what’s the solution?

Truthfully, I don’t want ANYONE in the perceived rotation (Gausman, Bassitt, Berrios, Kikuchi, Manoah; and let’s include Francis, just in case) being a target of bad sorcery. Instead, the Jays could hand things over to one of the so-called depth pieces.

Have Mitch White, Yariel Rodriguez or Wes Parsons step on the mound and literally take one for the team. Hell, give Ricky Tiedemann a taste of the big-league experience before sending him to Buffalo at an appropriate time.

Another option: The Jays could use an opener. Have Trevor Richards throw an inning or two before handing the keys over to Gausman.

Of course that’s crazy. But consider this:

Anyone and everyone is convinced the starting staff “won’t be as lucky as they were in 2023” and a significant injury or two is a given. So, why tempt fate? Why not give the rotation some extra – albeit small – protection?

2024 is going to be a crucial season for the Jays as they must decide if they’re going to shit or get off the toilet. So much has to go right for them and anything negative must be minimal.

This team can’t afford an alarming regression from any of their best players; especially the starting rotation and especially Kevin Gausman. If that means keeping him off the mound to avoid an unproven, superstitious curse, I’m all for it.

Then again, if Gausman goes out there, I won’t fear the worst. Believe me, I want him to make me look like an idiot for even considering this at all.

Besides, curses aren’t really real.

Right? 😟

ER

All being well, I sincerely hope Danny Jansen has the GREATEST season of his professional big league baseball career🤞

Did you know Danny Jansen is a free agent after this season?

It wasn’t widely known until recent articles by Mr. Matheson and Mr. Davidi brought it to the forefront. Understandably, we’re all focused on Vladdy and Bo. What happens to them contractually dictates the direction of the team.

No one is thinking about Danny’s future. No one is wondering if he’ll sign a long-term deal.

But maybe we should.

As conveyed by Matheson and Davidi, Jano has one of the toughest jobs in baseball. He needs to know the nuances of every single hurler on the pitching staff. Not just the active roster, but also those on a taxi squad and the 40-player roster. He must remember each pitcher’s strengths and weaknesses; their best pitchers and their location tendencies.

Danny also needs to consider various scenarios for every at-bat and every pitch. Snap decisions are made while being mindful of the pitch clock and runners on base. He’s always thinking; probably more than anyone else.

On top of all that, Jano continues to work on his defence and hitting. Physical skills that demand as much attention as the mental ones.

It’s overwhelming and exhausting for a civilian, but normal life for him.

Thankfully, Danny doesn’t have to do it all by himself. Alejandro Kirk shoulders the responsibility as well.

Neither fit the typical starter/backup relationship. They are both starters; 1A and 1B. The Jays are fortunate to have this luxury.

I daydream about Kirkie and Jano becoming the most dangerous catching tandem in MLB. Doesn’t matter who’s starting and who will come off the bench. They’ll make such an impact that all the belly-aching about Grabiel Moreno will cease.

Much like Kirk, I hope Danny has a 2024 full of accolades and good health.

And therein lies the key detail: Health.

Jano has spent a significant amount of time on the injured list. Additionally, it seems like he goes on the IL just as he’s heating up.

Staying healthy is imperative for Danny. Shit happens on the field and unpredictability is rampant. Nevertheless, the more Jano is available, the better it is for the Jays.

At season’s end, I hope we can reminisce about the important role Danny played. I also hope he gets a big bag of money; probably not as big as what Vladdy and Bo could get, but still respectable.

And I hope he’s with the Jays in 2025 and beyond. Given that he’s turning 29 soon, it’s possible the front office elects to seek a younger model to team with Kirk. Can’t recall any catching prospects in the farm system (can you?); so, it’s also possible that he signs with the Jays.

For now, to hell with free agency. 2024 will be the most important season of Jano’s career. May it be fruitful and unimpaired! I am crossing all my fingers and toes for him.

Perhaps you should too.

ER

Negative feelings about the Blue Jays be damned! It’s ALWAYS sunny in Dunedin, Florida

Pitchers and catchers will be reporting to Dunedin in a few days. The rest will follow. Some might check in early, while others are already there.

One of these days, I hope to enjoy the taste of spring training – metaphorically filling a cup of nondescript size and stature. A tour of the PDC is a must and of course, a contest or two.

Truthfully, I have already experienced Grapefruit League baseball in the flesh.

March 2000: The Jays were hosting Cleveland for a weekend series at SkyDome. My friend and I attended the Saturday feature – a seven-inning doubleheader that saw the Jays win the first match and tie (yes, tie) the second one.

Sure, there were a couple of palm trees behind the outfield wall and some players jogged on the warning track during the games. But for all the effort, the metal, plastic, concrete and Astroturf just couldn’t duplicate the warm, nourishing climate of Florida.

Spring Training can make the most pessimistic individual see a glass half full. Unless, of course, that individual is a Jays fan in February 2024.

Seriously, why are you so miserable? I’m as concerned as you are, but I’m still excited for the upcoming season.

That’s because you’re in denial, Eric. The Jays are shit, made worse by #Shatkins fucking up as usual. This year will be just like 2023, probably worse. Unlike you, we’re not afraid to make declarations.

Well, you are who you are and I have no control over that. The same way you can’t control how I react emotionally. Embracing the pain and waiting to see how the story plays out is my choice and mine alone.

Come join us in the real world when you’re done with your bullshit fantasy.

Okay. Have fun being miserable, I guess.

I understand the frustration. We didn’t “win the offseason” – and seriously, when did “winning the offseason” become a thing?

IKF, Justin Turner, Yariel Rodriguez and resigning Kevin Kiermaier aren’t the sexiest of moves.

Better than no moves at all.

Let’s also remember that these transactions address needs.

IKF provides defensive utility, Turner can DH and be a part-time infielder, Rodriguez adds to the pitching depth (you can never have enough) and Kiermaier is a gold glove outfielder.

Now, I’m sure you’re rolling your eyes and uttering all kinds of profanity at me. So, I’ll also say this:

These transactions address some needs, but not all of them. There’s still work to be done.

The Jays need to figure out third base. IKF is better suited as a defensive replacement and I’m not comfortable with unproven talents like Addison Barger and Orelvis Martinez starting at the hot corner.

Hell, if Chappy is willing to take a one-to-two-year deal, I’m all for it! The offense was harsh after his hot April, but it’s hard to ignore that phenomenal defense. Maybe Mr. Mattingly will help Chappy get his groove back. 🤞

The Jays could also use an additional outfielder with a solid bat. We can’t expect Varsho, George and Kiermaier to start every game. They need someone productive to rotate in. 🤞

We all have our hopes and expectations. So, if it’s the status quo when Spring Training commences, should we be disappointed?

You watch or listen to any podcast and the consensus is yes. I would agree with that.

Does that mean the Jays’ fate is sealed before a single pitch is thrown?

Of course not! The trade deadline is at the end of July; not the middle of February. They can also sign any free agent at any time.

The fanbase is not in a good place. I’ve seen a few posts dreading the upcoming season. One podcast I recently watched had the hosts agonizing over the roster. You’d think they would rather have a root canal with no anesthetic.

I get it. Lots of talent, expiring contracts and a team that keeps getting stuck in the mud around October. I’m worried too.

But I’m not NOT going to be excited about Spring Training. The Jays are flawed and didn’t have a splashy offseason. Spring Training trumps all that.

Spring Training isn’t just about pretend games and discussing the roster to death. It carries powerful symbols.

When our universe focuses on Dunedin, winter begins its conclusion. Fresh starts and fresh air. A blank canvas ready to be filled. Everything is new and has a chance.

Stop rolling your eyes! Baseball hits the reset button with grapefruits, cacti and optimism.

The Jays don’t have their shit together, but who does? Don’t ignore the sunshine out of spite.

If you want to kvetch, go right ahead. Kvetch all you want!

But I’m staying on my trail. It could be rough and ugly. It could be glorious. And I want to absorb and embrace everything that happens.

It begins in Dunedin and hopefully, ends on a parade route.

I can’t overlook that.

ER

PS: If you’re upset about Justin Turner because of his age, please visit Baseball-Reference.com and look up 40-year-old Dave Winfield’s 1992 campaign with the Jays. Not saying Turner is as great as Winfield. But imagine if he produces 60-75% of what Winfield provided. 😊

I never experienced Dave Stieb in his prime and that really SUCKS

My Blue Jays fandom will forever be incomplete.

Being born in the early 80s means my earliest memories of the team don’t occur until the latter part of the decade. I never had the Exhibition Stadium experience or witnessed an incredible outfield trio in the flesh.

Perhaps the toughest pill to swallow was never watching the BEST of Dave Stieb.

Oh, I’ve seen the best of Dave Stieb from videos, articles and stories by the campfire. I also have clear memories of Dave Stieb playing a small, supportive role in 1992 and then making a comeback in 1998.

But when it comes to his era of dominance, alas, I missed out.

That’s why when the topic of “Greatest Blue Jays Starter” comes up, my brain defaults to Roy Halladay.

I witnessed Doc at his best. Every time he stepped on the mound, I could feel butterflies in my stomach because I wanted him to conquer the opposition.

Would I have felt the same way for Stieb? It’s possible. But I’ll never know because I was a baby during Stieb’s tenure; a man during Doc’s.

I’m not interested in “Dave vs. Doc.” Instead, attention should be given to the sin of Stieb not being enshrined in Cooperstown.

I say this unapologetically and full of bias: DAMN FUCKING RIGHT DAVE STIEB SHOULD BE IN THE HALL OF FAME!!!

It’s not just the stats or the all-star appearances that convince me, it’s the folklore.

It also helps when there’s an online documentary and a social media account that fights the good fight on Stieb’s behalf, keeping him present in the zeitgeist.

We can take solace that he’s already part of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame. We can also pray that some committee will one day realize Stieb’s career is worthy of a plaque in Cooperstown. He was one of the best pitchers of the 1980s and the face of the Blue Jays for many seasons.

I just wish I could have seen it live.

Okay, Eric. Is there a point to this???

Yes. Don’t take your favourite players for granted.

When you realize you’re witnessing talent that stands higher than anything else, appreciate it. Savour the moments and celebrate every accomplishment.

Do this because there will be future generations that won’t passionately connect with the talent like you did.

They’ll understand the importance of said talent. They’ll marvel at the footage and second-hand accounts. However, they’ll never enjoy the talent in the moment, missing out on the experience.

We all deal with that – pining to see a superstar from a previous era or generation. You can even field a roster!

It might be Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron or Ichiro Suzuki. For me, it’s Dave Stieb.

ER

I really, really, REALLY want the “Alek Manoah Revenge Tour” to set the world on fire 🔥🔥🔥

Salutations, Alek.

Hope you had a great Christmas. I bet you’re the type of person who doesn’t judge a year based on one specific thing.

Sure, you performed poorly on the mound, but you also traveled, walked the earth with your head held high and married the love of your life. You and Marielena looked amazing! I wish you both decades of happiness!!!

Alek, have you ever acquired something and couldn’t wait to consume it; but then got home, put it on a shelf and haven’t touched it for months?

You see it collecting dust, begging to be addressed; but life gets in the way and you promise yourself you’ll address it later. And you repeat this action over and over to the point where shame and guilt have little effect.

I’ve been dealing with this since last spring, Alek.

I had a gift certificate that was accepted at my local pharmacy. It was days away from expiring and I couldn’t allow free money to go to waste. So, I walked the aisles looking for items that would equal the honorarium’s value.

That’s when I saw it, Alek.

Surrounded by publications of various topics: A new, crisp April 2023 issue of Toronto Life with you as the feature subject.

Toronto Life celebrates the coolest Torontonians. The rich and famous, the ones who make a difference, those who move and shake. Now, you – the Ace of the Blue Jays – were part of that zeitgeist.

I had to have it, Alek.

So, I bought it. Took it home and marveled at the cover. Skimmed through it a few times. Set it aside on my nightstand and anticipated reading the article.

And it never happened. It still hasn’t happened. I see the magazine every fucking day and remind myself to read it. And it doesn’t happen. Too many stupid excuses.

I’m so sorry, Alek. You have an incredible story and you’re an incredible person. I’m sure the article highlights that. Yet, I keep ignoring it.

Maybe if I read the article, things would’ve been different.

Maybe it’s all my fault. All of the ugly struggles you went through occurred because I haven’t read the article yet.

I know – that’s crazy AF. Some random schmuck blames himself for your poor performance in 2023. It’s certifiable batshit insanity.

But what’s also crazy is how some are convinced your carriage has turned into a pumpkin.

You didn’t pitch well, period. Maybe you were hurt – Kevin mentioned you might have been overzealous in Spring Training. Maybe something off the field was affecting you.

I don’t know, Alek. Nobody outside the clubhouse does. Unfortunately, you have become a question mark, a mystery. Optically, you struggled and your “camp” and the front office disagreed about the proper course of action.

Some think you’ll never regain your 2022 form. Some think your time in Toronto will unceremoniously end. They could be right, Alek; but I want them to be wrong.

Maybe I’m too stubborn, Alek. We live in a world where fans rush to judgement; where being first and sharp is valued more than something that’s well thought out. It’s like nobody considers the human side of your story.

That’s why I’m hoping you’ll set the world on fire in 2024.

Take everything that happened to you – the struggles, the frustration, the alleged friction with the Front Office – and flush it down the shitter. I’m sure you already have.

Save a little bit of that anger though. Convert it into motivation and apply it where needed.

It’s a new year and it’s going to be your year, Alek. Greatest comeback ever! A resurgence that brings the league to its knees! Humble everyone and anyone.

Truthfully, Alek, you don’t need me to say all of this. You know what to do and you’ll do it. Those who cast you away will ultimately celebrate your presence.

You keep working and set the world the fire, while I finally read that Toronto Life article.

I promise.

ER