The Toronto Blue Jays, narrowly missing the World Series title last year after leading in the ninth inning of game seven against the Los Angeles Dodgers, are gearing up for a strong comeback in 2026. Veterans Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer are channeling last season’s disappointment into renewed focus, aiming to build momentum for a successful campaign.
Veteran Leaders Set Their Sights on a Fresh Start
Both Guerrero and Springer recently shared their outlook in an interview with MLB Network during the
“30 clubs, 30 camps: Blue Jays”
feature. Guerrero, reflecting on the previous postseason, expressed deep pride in the collective effort of his teammates.
I mean, it means a lot,
Guerrero said.
That means all the work you put in in the offseason—that showing that in that moment. To me, that was an amazing run, and I feel so priveleged to be part of this team that’s doing that.
– Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Blue Jays star
Guerrero’s performance in the postseason was exceptional, posting a .397 batting average with 8 home runs, 15 RBIs, and a 1.289 OPS, building on a solid regular season where he hit .292 with 23 home runs and 84 RBIs. Meanwhile, Springer played a pivotal role, notably delivering the go-ahead home run in game seven of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners.
Springer emphasized the need to move beyond last year’s outcomes and maintain a determined mindset for the current season.
I think at the end of the day, we have to understand that was last year and this is now, and we have to have the same mentality,
Springer explained.
You’ve got to play hard. You want it just as bad as you did last year. Understand what you did well in 2025, but it’s a whole new year.
– George Springer, designated hitter
Blue Jays Strengthen Their Roster with Key Additions
Building on their previous achievements, the Blue Jays have bolstered their lineup by signing pitchers Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and Tyler Rogers. They also secured Japanese free agent infielder Kazuma Okamoto, who is expected to fill the roster spot left by Bo Bichette after his move to the New York Mets. These additions aim to reinforce the team’s competitiveness and depth heading into the new season.
George Springer Aims to Sustain His 2025 Breakthrough
After an underwhelming 2024, Springer returned to form in 2025, registering a .309 batting average with 32 home runs, 84 RBIs, 18 stolen bases, and a .959 OPS. Now 36 years old, the veteran designated hitter remains motivated and hungry to continue delivering at a high level alongside his teammates.
I’m just as hungry as I was when I first got here. I want to do well; I want us to do well. I want to be a part of this team more. I love this team—it’s so much fun—but to have the guys here, to want to keep doing what we’re doing, is something special,
Springer stated.
Springer’s illustrious career includes winning the 2017 World Series and earning the World Series MVP title with the Houston Astros, a title later shadowed by the team’s sign-stealing controversy. With this history behind him, he is determined to secure another championship under clean circumstances.
The Path Ahead for the Blue Jays in 2026
As the Blue Jays prepare for the new season, the blend of experienced players like Guerrero Jr. and Springer, alongside fresh talent and strategic signings, reflects their ambition to claim dominance in the American League. The lessons from last year’s near victory have sharpened their resolve, making them a team to watch closely as 2026 unfolds. Maintaining their momentum and integrating new players effectively will be critical to converting their potential into championship success.
"It was an amazing run and I feel so good to be a part of this team." – Vlad Jr. on the @BlueJays' 2025 Postseason run
📺 30 Clubs, 30 Camps pic.twitter.com/t2h4Jn2dPK
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 23, 2026
"At the end of the day we have to understand that was last year and this is now. We have to have the same mentality."
– Blue Jays veteran George Springer on his mindset entering 2026 after falling short in the World Series pic.twitter.com/9Ii5rvi3vx
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 23, 2026
