Fri Nov 07 10:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Mattingly Departs Blue Jays as Schneider Secured Through 2026
TORONTO – The Toronto Blue Jays will be looking for a new bench coach next season as Don Mattingly has decided to leave the organization, citing a desire to spend more time with family. The departure comes after a season that saw the Blue Jays come within one win of their first World Series title since 1993.
“He’s had a significant [impact] and I feel like it will be lasting,” said General Manager Ross Atkins, acknowledging the loss. “It’s something that we have to deal with in the game. We have to figure out a way to continue to improve even when we have a significant loss.”
Mattingly, a former New York Yankees star, joined the Blue Jays in 2023 as bench coach to manager John Schneider and briefly served as offensive coordinator before returning to his initial role.
The news arrives alongside the announcement that the Blue Jays have exercised manager John Schneider’s contract option, securing him through the 2026 season. Atkins praised Schneider’s leadership, particularly highlighting a 20-win improvement from the previous season.
“Schneids has been unbelievable. He is a clear leader in this organization. Really, really good at his job and very proud to be working with him,” Atkins stated.
Schneider took over as interim manager in July 2022, replacing Charlie Montoyo, before being named full-time manager.
While the search for Mattingly’s replacement begins, Atkins indicated no other significant changes are expected within the coaching staff.
In other news, the Blue Jays have extended a $22,025,000 qualifying offer for 2026 to free agent infielder Bo Bichette. The two-time All-Star shortstop is widely expected to reject the offer, but Atkins confirmed the team’s interest in retaining him. “He’s been important,” Atkins said. “We will be in his market.”
Right-hander Shane Bieber has already exercised his $16 million player option for 2026 to remain with the team. However, the team also faces free agency decisions with pitchers Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer, both of whom played key roles in the team’s World Series run. Scherzer started Game 7, while Bassitt pitched in relief.
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