John Schneider and the Blue Jays are in talks about a potential long-term extension, as the manager shared with Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi. With Schneider entering the last year of his current deal, both sides are exploring options that make sense, and Schneider expressed his commitment to the team, saying, “there’s no place I’d rather be than with this group.”
Schneider stepped up from bench coach to interim manager in 2022 after Charlie Montoyo's departure, guiding the Jays to a wild card berth. This success earned him a three-year contract as the full-time manager, with a club option for 2026, which the Jays exercised following their impressive run to Game 7 of the World Series.
Under Schneider, the Jays boast a 303-257 record, reaching the postseason three times in four years. The 2024 season was the exception, with a 74-88 finish sparking discussions about potential changes in leadership. However, winning the AL pennant in 2025 shifted the narrative, positioning both Schneider and GM Ross Atkins as strong candidates for extensions.
While it's likely Schneider and Atkins could secure new deals before Opening Day, extending Daulton Varsho seems less certain. Varsho, entering his final season before free agency, is represented by Scott Boras, who typically prefers his clients to test the open market.
Atkins has shown interest in extending Varsho, but Varsho himself has stayed out of these discussions, leaving them to his agent. He did express his appreciation for the team, saying, “I love being here.
They treat families really well.” Yet, with a strong 2026 season, Varsho could command a significant free agent contract, making an extension tricky.
Varsho is recognized as a top defensive center fielder, hitting 85 homers over four seasons. However, his .225/.292/.432 slash line since 2022, coupled with injury setbacks, presents challenges. He missed significant time in 2025 due to a rotator cuff surgery and a hamstring strain.
Meanwhile, in Blue Jays’ spring camp, Eloy Jimenez is getting reps at first base, as reported by MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson. Jimenez, who previously played with the White Sox and Orioles, is aiming to improve his chances of making the Jays’ roster. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. locked in at first base and Kazuma Okamoto expected at third, Jimenez's versatility could be key.
Jimenez hit .270/.321/.469 with 94 homers during his time with the White Sox, but injuries and inconsistency have hindered his career. Now at 29, he’s looking to reignite his MLB journey, potentially finding a new role with the Blue Jays.