The Toronto Blue Jays made the World Series for the first time since 1993 during the 2025 season.
While still heavy contenders to win the American League pennant once again, there are some challenges that the Blue Jays face.
Former Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar spoke about these challenges on Foul Territory and his expectations for the 2026 season.
The Blue Jays selected Pillar in the 32nd round of the 2011 MLB Draft out of California State University. He would play seven seasons with Toronto, posting 14 bWAR.
Despite playing for nine other teams during his MLB career, Pillar still roots for the franchise that gave him his first chance in the league.
What Did Pillar Say About the Toronto Blue Jays?
The Blue Jays spent a lot of time and resources this offseason to ensure their 2025 season was not an aberration.
World Series hangover is a real thing. Many teams have succumbed to it, despite going into the following season with great expectations after winning a pennant or championship.
Pillar believes this won’t be an issue for the team in 2026, but that they will still face challenges.
“If you guys listen to (Blue Jays manager) John Schneider’s initial meeting and he quoted (Blue Jays outfielder) George Springer, it’s like this is the first time they’ve really had a bullseye on their back,” Pillar said. “You know, they’re being hunted. They’re not the hunter anymore.
“The Blue Jays have a big challenge in front of them, not just about having that bullseye on their back, but it’s just really difficult to get back to the postseason year in year out. So, it’s going to be a big challenge for them.”
While they will have that bullseye on their back, it’s important to have humility and drive to put the bullseye on someone else’s back.
The AL, as always, is a tough league to come out of. Schneider knows the Blue Jays will need the same fire they had last year to win the pennant again.
How Will They Do It Again?
Toronto was so close to winning its first World Series in over 30 years before succumbing to the juggernaut Los Angeles Dodgers.
Blue Jays Warned of ‘Big Challenge’ Amid World Series Aftermath