My Top Ten Favourite Toronto Blue Jays

Once again, I find myself responding to Matthew Larkin, this time not regarding the use of historic church properties; this time nothing to do with the experience of Christ’s Real Presence in the Mass. No, this time his challenge to me is to name my ten favourite Toronto Blue Jays players.

I reiterate that I am still a novice fan with little knowledge of team history I do, however, have my own attachments to a few players. By the time this blog is published the 2026 trade deadline will have passed, so we shall who’s gone and who’s left. Here’s my list of favourites:

George Springer — He stays. Great news; The Springer dinger” is arguably the best moment from 2025. I think he’s a genuinely a nice guy — Forget about the Astros shenanigans; they still BOO him in LA.

Trey Yesavage — He was a huge surprise with his over-the-top delivery in the World Series run last year. Other teams have figured him out somewhat now but he still controls strong innings. Also love his cool-headed personality.

Dylan Cease — What a great addition; he delivers, consistently. Don’t know why I missed him before; he was off to Tommy John surgery I think.

Kazuma Okamoto — Love his big smile. Lots of homers; he’s great on third; and he just loves playing the game.

Nathan Lukes — Once people figured out how to pronounce his name he settled right in. A middle power hitter who keeps on giving.

Davis Schneider — My debut as a Jays fan came when Davis came up and homered in New York during his debut game. He’s mobile — goes down and comes up a lot. Must have a lot of frequent flyer points. Not always consistent but delivers when it really counts.

Louis Varland — FINALLY, we got a good closer. That’s all.

Ernie Clement — Great utility player. You need these guys.

AND THEY’RE GONE

Daulton Varsho — A brilliant centre-fielder; so many home run robberies leaping to the top of the back wall. Such athleticism. That said, off to Houston. I am surprised.

Kevin Gausman — Not as consistent as in the past but a great performer and really nice guy. He loves Toronto and Toronto loves him.That said, he’s off to the Chicago Cubs. Fans gave him a wonderful and well deserved standing ovation following his last pitch at the Rogers Centre.

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