TORONTO — The Toronto Blue JaysCharlie Montoyo was awarded an extension to his contract as manager through the 2023 season.
Montoyo (57) has steered a turbulent period in Blue Jays’ history. The team played home games last season in three cities, including two minor league parks because of border restrictions relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Toronto also played its 2020 home season at the Triple-A stadium in Buffalo (New York).
Montoyo is the 13th manager in Blue Jays’ history and the first Puerto Rican to do so. He has a record of 190-194 through his three seasons with Toronto. In the expanded playoffs, Montoyo led Toronto to a wild-card playoff berth. However, the Blue Jays were defeated by eventual AL champion Tampa Bay during the first round.
Toronto finished at 91-71 and was unable to tie for the American League wildcard by one game.
Montoyo, who joined the Blue Jays in October 2019, had spent six seasons with Tampa Bay’s major-league coaching staff, including three years as a bench coach. He also spent 18 seasons in Tampa Bay’s minor league management system.
Montoyo was an ex-infielder who was drafted to Milwaukee in 1987. He played 10 seasons with professional baseball’s Phillies, Brewers and Expos. His only experience in the major leagues was a four-game stint in Montreal in 1993.
Montoyo was a big league teammate of Vladimir Guerrero, who is the father of Jays slugger. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Toronto opens 2022 season home to Texas in April 8.