The power of experience: John Schneider's journey to becoming a manager.
In the heart of Seattle, as the Blue Jays manager John Schneider stepped onto the field, his mind was a whirlwind of memories, specifically those with Max Scherzer. Schneider's ability to recall specific plays and games is his foundation, a baseball Rolodex in his mind.
During the Blue Jays' impressive win over the Seattle Mariners, Schneider's decision-making process was put to the test. Should he trust the words of a legendary pitcher, Max Scherzer, who insisted he could continue pitching? Schneider's choice to let Scherzer finish the fifth inning and then send him back out showcased his managerial evolution.
"The more you learn, the faster you adapt," Schneider wisely stated. It's this competitive advantage that has guided the Blue Jays to the brink of the World Series.
But here's where it gets controversial... Schneider's journey hasn't been without its fair share of scrutiny and criticism. His lowest moments as a manager have been well-documented, especially the decisions that didn't pan out. However, it's the lessons learned from these moments that have made Schneider a stronger manager.
And this is the part most people miss... Schneider's approach to management is unique. He believes in managing people, their feelings, and emotions. It's not just about the game; it's about the human element.
Schneider's experience taught him to anticipate and prepare. He gathered his starting rotation months before a critical game to discuss the challenges of facing a lineup for the third time. He wanted everyone on the same page, understanding the nuances of pitching decisions.
The result? A unified Blue Jays team, with veterans like Chris Bassitt and Kevin Gausman feeling more aligned with the front office than ever. Schneider, the bridge between players and executives, has fostered this bond through his people-centric management style.
On Thursday, Schneider's trust in Scherzer paid off. Despite the statistics screaming for a change, Schneider's past conversations and lessons guided his decision to keep Scherzer in the game.
"You make the best decision in the moment," Schneider said, accepting the responsibility and consequences of his choices.
Schneider's journey is a testament to the power of learning from mistakes and adapting. His wife, Jessy, asks him every offseason if he still loves the game, and his answer is always a resounding yes.
So, what's your take? Do you think Schneider's approach is a recipe for success, or is there a better way to manage a baseball team? Weigh in and let us know your thoughts in the comments!
