Toronto — Amidst a wave of news and speculation, Toronto Blue Jays head coach John Schneider has issued a strong statement against the notion that Blue Jays fans are a “terrible force to be avoided,” or simply a “strong empire.” Schneider made it clear: the fans are more than just the foundation—they are the team’s strongest force, the heartbeat that beats with it.
At today’s press conference, Schneider appeared serious and respectful when referring to the team’s fans. When asked about comments from some MLB Board members that teams should “think twice before talking about Blue Jays fans,” Schneider responded: “If fans are an empire that everyone avoids, then we don’t want to be a team of people who avoid. Fans shouldn’t be feared — they should be celebrated. They’re the ones who sweat with us, who suffer defeats and look forward to victories. They’re the power that makes the Blue Jays watchable, believable.”
Blue Jays fans — not just supporters, but motivation
Schneider cited nights filled with cheers, games where fans stood up when the team was tied for every point, and how fandom energized players when many viewers might lose patience. “I know some people think they’re too passionate, too passionate; but I tell you — that passion, that fire, that passion, that’s what makes the Blue Jays,” Schneider said.
He also shared that since he took over the team, he has never taken the role of the fans for granted. Schneider talked about the scene of fans standing outside after practice, headlights on, waving flags, singing — “sometimes the team is tired, but seeing those faces, hearing that cheer, everything means more.”
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When Words Affect Morale
Previous comments from MLB Board directors — that Blue Jays fans are “formidable,” “unpredictable,” or that the team should “be careful” when referring to them — Schneider called those words hurtful, especially when fans are rooting for the team through good times and bad. He asserted that respect for fans is essential — in baseball, the outside view is as important as the inside.
Conclusion: Fans Are Family, Not a Threat
John Schneider ended the press conference with a message: “If anyone thinks our fans are something to avoid, I tell them: you’re wrong. Blue Jays fans are not a challenge — they are the reason we fight every day. They don’t just watch the team; they carry the Blue Jays in their hearts. And when you touch them, you touch our family.”
In a baseball world where media and pressure from all sides often overshadow real values, Schneider chose to speak up for what matters: the fans — the people behind the team’s growth.
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