A sense of uncertainty loomed during the training camp in February as the Toronto Blue Jays geared up for the 2025 season following a disappointing last-place finish. With their star player’s contract status up in the air and playoff hopes uncertain, the team faced challenges.
However, the Blue Jays underwent a remarkable transformation, going from last to first place and making a memorable postseason run that culminated in reaching Game 7 of the World Series. Subsequently, the team was honored by being selected as The Canadian Press team of the year, receiving 29 out of 53 votes, surpassing other contenders like the women’s curling team led by Rachel Homan.
Mark Shapiro, the Blue Jays president, highlighted the significant impact the team’s success had on the country, uniting fans nationwide in pride and excitement. The team’s resurgence was attributed to strategic moves such as signing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a record-breaking contract extension and acquiring star pitcher Shane Bieber at the trade deadline.
Despite facing challenges like injuries to key players, the Blue Jays maintained their momentum and clinched the American League East division title. Led by Guerrero’s stellar performance, supported by players like George Springer and Alejandro Kirk, the team showcased a strong lineup and pitching depth.
The Blue Jays’ playoff success, including a noteworthy win against the Yankees in the AL Division Series and a comeback against the Mariners in the AL Championship Series, captured the attention of baseball fans across Canada. Their journey culminated in a hard-fought World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, ultimately ending in a thrilling Game 7.
The team’s camaraderie and resilience throughout the season earned them praise and admiration, with Shapiro emphasizing the players’ belief in each other as a competitive advantage. This recognition as The Canadian Press team of the year marked the sixth time in the award’s history that the Blue Jays have been honored.
In other sports news, swimmer Summer McIntosh and NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander were named female and male athletes of the year, respectively, by The Canadian Press, continuing the tradition that began in 1932 to recognize outstanding athletes annually.