Former Blue Jay Kevin Pillar Shares Expectations for Team in 2026 The Toronto Blue Jays made their first playoff push since 1993 during the 2025 season, but their most iconic playoff runs came during the 2015-2016 era. That roster featured a standout defensive presence in center, left, or right field, a role defined by Kevin Pillar. Over seven seasons with the team, Pillar became a defensive wizard, accumulating a WAR of 14. Now retired, Pillar has returned to the role of spectator, still passionately supporting the franchise that launched his MLB career. Pillar recently shared his thoughts on the Blue Jays’ outlook for 2026, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the team’s return to the postseason. Speaking ahead of the franchise’s opening day matchup against the Athletics, he encouraged fans to embrace the celebration of the season regardless of early results. “The fans have to be really excited for opening day,” he said. “Tomorrow is a celebration, whether they win or lose. They have a lot to be proud of.” The Blue Jays’ offseason spending underscored their commitment to competing for a World Series title in 2026, a goal that has drawn significant attention from analysts and fans alike. However, Pillar acknowledged the challenges of maintaining momentum after a recent playoff run. “The World Series hangover is real, but I don’t think that will hold them back,” he said. Pillar highlighted the pressure the team now faces, comparing it to being “hunted” rather than the hunter. “John Schneider’s initial meeting mentioned George Springer’s quote—this is the first time they’ve really had a bullseye on their back,” he explained. “They’re not the hunter anymore. The challenge is just how difficult it is to get back to the postseason year in and year out.#2026_season #toronto_blue_jays #john_schneider #kevin_pillar #george_springer
Blue Jays begin what they and fans hope is the ultimate redemption arc after last year's Game 7 heartbreaker The Toronto Blue Jays are entering the 2026 season with high hopes of overcoming the disappointment of their 2025 World Series Game 7 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager John Schneider admitted the defeat still lingers, but he emphasized that the team’s focus must shift toward the future. “Until you get back there, until you win one, it's part of you,” Schneider said, reflecting on the emotional toll of the loss. While the memory of the heartbreak remains, Schneider and his players are determined to channel that energy into a stronger 2026 campaign. The Blue Jays’ 2026 season coincides with their 50th anniversary as a franchise, a milestone that has generated immense excitement among fans. However, the pressure to deliver results is palpable, especially after the 2025 World Series finale, which became the most-watched Rogers Centre broadcast in history. The game averaged 10.9 million viewers, peaking at 14 million, a testament to the national significance of the matchup. Despite the high stakes, Schneider acknowledged the team’s current position in the AL East, noting they are a half-game behind the New York Yankees. “My expectations are for these guys to show up every day, be great teammates, and be obsessed with winning,” he said. The Blue Jays’ roster has undergone significant changes, with a focus on bolstering their pitching staff and adding star power. General manager Ross Atkins highlighted the team’s improved depth, particularly after the departure of All-Star second baseman Bo Bichette, who signed with the New York Mets. The club’s $316.7 million payroll includes additions like top-tier pitcher Dylan Cease, returning hurler Cody Ponce, and submarine-reliever Tyler Rogers.#los_angeles_dodgers #toronto_blue_jays #john_schneider #rogers_centre #kazuma_okamoto
Seahawks not planning to tag Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III: Sources The Seattle Seahawks are not expected to use the franchise tag on running back Kenneth Walker III, meaning the reigning Super Bowl MVP will become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins next week, according to team sources confirmed to The Athletic on Tuesday. Walker, 25, is entering his first season as a full-time starter after playing in all 17 regular-season games for the first time. He contributed 417 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns during three playoff contests, including 27 carries for 135 yards and two receptions for 26 yards in the Seahawks’ Super Bowl 60 victory over the New England Patriots. Seattle general manager John Schneider dismissed speculation about using the franchise tag on Walker during last week’s NFL Scouting Combine. When asked if the team would consider tagging him, Schneider responded with a laugh, calling the question a “good try.” Schneider has applied the franchise tag only twice since becoming GM in 2010. Walker’s strong finish to the 2025 season followed Zach Charbonnet’s season-ending ACL injury in the divisional round, but Schneider emphasized that this context would not significantly impact negotiations for Walker’s contract. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the “whole picture” in determining the team’s approach. Schneider expressed a desire to retain Walker, stating, “We’d love to have Ken back.” He acknowledged that Walker understands the team’s priorities, which include shaping the 70-man roster and aligning with the collective needs of the squad. Using the franchise tag on Walker would have tied him to the Seahawks for $14.5 million in 2026, according to Over the Cap. Alternatively, a transition tag would have cost $11.#new_england_patriots #seattle_seahawks #kenneth_walker_iii #super_bowl_60 #john_schneider
