Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons Retires After Win Over Houston

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons in 2017. Photo by Albert Pena/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (8873119q)

Coach John Gibbons retired on Wednesday after leading his team to a 3-1 win over the Houston Astros.

Speaking to the media before Wednesday’s games, the 56-year-old announced he had mutually agreed to leave Toronto for the second and probably last time. Gibbons first joined the team in 2002 as a bullpen catcher. He was fired in 2008 and got re-hired in 2013.

Asked if he was prepared for his tribute after the game, the laid-back manager said he always has been a low-key guy and didn’t expect much.

“I’ve never been a big fanfare guy. I just live my life low-key,” Gibbons said. “So, hopefully, I don’t have to go to the mound too often. I’d like to finish off with a win at home. Let’s put it that way.”

In one way, Gibbons got the win he wanted. But in the other, his ensured he didn’t leave without the proper send-off he deserved.

As the former Royals’ bench manager walked out to issue his lineup card to umpire Bruce Dreckman, the home crowd, about 22,000 fans stood to appreciate the man who has managed the Blue Jays for close to 12 years. The appreciation continued after the game, with the crowd clapping and chanting his name.

Gibbons’ contract was supposed to end in 2020 but with the team’s management insisting on a new manager, the 56-year old decided to retire at the end of this season.