John Schneider: "Blue Jays better on paper"

The Blue Jays entered the offseason with a number of holes to fill. Although the wait was long and sometimes painful for fans, the Blue Jays succeeding in checking off most of the needs on their list.

The moves offer some hope and optimism for Schneider, whose team missed the playoffs last year and handed Schneider his first losing season as manager.

On paper is one thing; it remains to be seen how well this can translate into on-field success. Still Schneider remains optimistic.

He also talked about the overall health of his team, saying that Kevin Gausman, Alejandro Kirk and Zach Pop are in the best shape of their lives.

He also said that while team still expects Daulton Varsho to start the season on the IL, they're not ruling anything out. If that indeed does happen, he is confident they can fill the hole in CF with Springer, Lukes, Loperfido, and Clase all capable of taking reps there.

Schneider is entering his third full season as Blue Jays manager after taking the reins in mid-2022 following the firing of Charlie Montoyo.

Prior to the 2023 season, Schneider signed a three year contract, with an option for a fourth year, so there will be some pressure on him to succeed this year.

If the Blue Jays can put together a winning record, there's no reason that Schneider wouldn't be back for 2026.

This season will be a big one.