Atkins reflects on his accountability during the Blue Jays season

Toronto Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins recently reflected on his accountability during the team’s season, acknowledging both successes and areas for improvement.

Atkins, who has been with the Blue Jays since 2015, took stock of the team’s performance during the 2021 season. The Blue Jays finished with an 91-71 record, narrowly missing out on a wild card spot in the playoffs. Despite falling short of their ultimate goal, Atkins highlighted several positive aspects of the season.

One of the key successes Atkins pointed to was the development of young talent within the organization. Players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and Alek Manoah all had breakout seasons, showcasing the team’s commitment to building a strong foundation for the future.

Atkins also praised the resilience of the team in the face of adversity, noting that they overcame injuries and setbacks to remain competitive throughout the season. He highlighted the contributions of veteran players like Marcus Semien and Robbie Ray, who provided leadership and stability during challenging times.

However, Atkins also acknowledged areas where he could have done better in his role as general manager. He admitted that there were missed opportunities in terms of roster construction and player acquisitions, which may have impacted the team’s performance down the stretch.

Looking ahead to next season, Atkins expressed optimism about the team’s potential for success. He emphasized the importance of continued development and improvement, both on and off the field, in order to build a championship-caliber team.

Overall, Atkins’ reflection on his accountability during the Blue Jays season serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of managing a professional sports team. While there were undoubtedly highs and lows throughout the year, Atkins remains committed to learning from past mistakes and striving for excellence in the future.