The Toronto Blue Jays' improbable run to the 2025 World Series, their first appearance since 1993, has captivated the city and the entire nation. As the Blue Jays prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers, another Toronto team, the Maple Leafs, are taking note. After another disappointing playoff exit last season, the Maple Leafs can glean valuable lessons from the Blue Jays' success.
One of the most significant takeaways is the importance of team camaraderie and chemistry. Maple Leafs' head coach Craig Berube has observed the Blue Jays' tight-knit group from afar. Winger Max Domi echoed this sentiment, noting how the Blue Jays players emphasize their love for each other as a key to their success. This sense of brotherhood and unity can be a powerful force, especially when facing adversity in high-pressure playoff situations. The Maple Leafs can learn from the Blue Jays' example by fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie within their own locker room.
The Blue Jays' journey also highlights the significance of role players and the "little things" that contribute to winning. Chris Tanev, a defenseman for the Maple Leafs, pointed to a sacrifice bunt by Andres Gimenez as a crucial play that ultimately led to George Springer's game-winning home run in Game 7 of the ALCS. These small, often unnoticed contributions can make a significant difference in close games and demonstrate a team's commitment to doing whatever it takes to win. The Maple Leafs can adopt this mindset by emphasizing the importance of every player contributing in their own way, whether it's through timely defensive plays, crucial face-off wins, or effective forechecking.
Resilience and the ability to overcome adversity are other key attributes displayed by the Blue Jays throughout their playoff run. After losing the first two games of the ALCS at home, the Blue Jays faced a daunting challenge. However, they rallied to win the series in seven games, showcasing their mental toughness and ability to bounce back from setbacks. The Maple Leafs, who have struggled with consistency in the playoffs, can draw inspiration from the Blue Jays' resilience. Developing a "never give up" attitude and maintaining composure in the face of adversity will be crucial for the Maple Leafs to achieve their own postseason success.
The Blue Jays' success comes after the team clinched the American League East division title for the first time since 2015. They beat the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series (ALDS) to advance to the ALCS. George Springer's three-run homer in the seventh inning of Game 7 propelled the Blue Jays to their first World Series in 32 years. Rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage, who started the season in Low-A Dunedin, made waves with his impressive postseason performance. Max Scherzer, in his first postseason start for the Blue Jays at age 41, also made history.
While the Maple Leafs have made changes in the off-season, including trading Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights, they still face questions on how to replace his offensive production. The team has brought in new forwards, and coach Craig Berube is looking for a "group effort" to fill the void. As the Maple Leafs look to their upcoming season, they can look to the Blue Jays’ example of teamwork, resilience, and attention to detail as a roadmap for their own pursuit of playoff success.
