Blue Jays assistant GM David Bell reveals why he’s stepping down

In the wake of a disappointing 2026 season, Toronto Blue Jays assistant general manager David Bell has announced his departure from the team. Bell, who also served as the vice president of baseball operations, cited a desire to reassess his role and impact both on and off the field. The Blue Jays, who fell short of the playoffs despite reaching the World Series in 2025, are now reevaluating their approach moving forward.

General manager Ross Atkins acknowledged the team's struggles, particularly in the offensive department. They failed to generate momentum offensively and struggled to get on base, relying heavily on line drives to generate runs. The team's inability to capitalize on opportunities led to a 79-83 record, placing them last in the American League East standings.

One area of concern was the performance of designated hitter Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The highly anticipated player posted just nine home runs throughout the season, falling short of expectations. While Atkins expressed confidence in Guerrero's ability to bounce back, the team is taking a closer look at all aspects of their performance to identify areas for improvement.

In addition to Bell's departure, the Blue Jays also declined Myles Straw's 2027 player option. The team is now focused on rebuilding and regaining momentum following a disappointing season.