Blue Jays bench coach walks away from Toronto but not from baseball | Sporting News

Don Mattingly Leaves Toronto Blue Jays but Continues Baseball Career

Don Mattingly is stepping away from his role as bench coach for the Toronto Blue Jays after a remarkable 2025 season. The team clinched the AL East title, won the ALCS for the first time since 1993, and nearly captured their first World Series championship in 32 years.

End of Tenure with the Blue Jays

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Mattingly will not return as the Blue Jays’ bench coach for the 2026 season. Despite this, he has no plans to retire from coaching baseball.

Don Mattingly is leaving the Blue Jays after their World Series run, but he is not planning to retire.

Future Prospects

Mattingly, aged 64, may pursue a managerial role in the 2026 season, with some opportunities expected to arise. His time with Toronto brought him close to his first World Series title, as the Blue Jays lost Game 7 to the Dodgers after holding a lead most of the game, until Miguel Rojas hit a ninth-inning game-tying home run.

Mattingly’s Role with the Blue Jays

Joining in November 2022, Mattingly supported manager John Schneider and provided veteran leadership to a roster blending seasoned stars and young talent. Although a World Series championship eluded him, his tenure was marked by significant team achievements.

Season Highlights

Author’s summary: Don Mattingly departs as Blue Jays bench coach after a historic season, aiming to continue his baseball career in a manager role in 2026.

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Sporting News Sporting News — 2025-11-06

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