Atkins’ reluctance to rely solely on power bats seems to be informed by the Jays’ underwhelming offensive output in 2024, where they scored just 671 runs, their lowest since 1997. Despite their historically lower home run count this season, Atkins believes that offensive success isn’t just about plugging in big hitters but about finding “complete hitters” who excel in on-base percentage, contact rates, and the ability to hit in diverse situations.
The Jays’ home run decline—from a high of 262 in 2021 to just 156 in 2024—highlights the issue, but Atkins argues that more is needed than just raw power. He expressed the need for versatility in hitters, valuing players who can adapt to both right- and left-handed pitching, get into favorable counts, and “do damage” when it matters. This mirrors his broader philosophy of not just chasing home run hitters, but ensuring that any new power additions come with a well-rounded offensive skill set.
However, manager John Schneider offered a more direct view, stating that adding power should take precedence over defensive concerns. He noted that while the current lineup includes good hitters who underperformed, the team needs more power and the ability to punish fastballs.
The internal discussions suggest a complex approach to fixing the offense, combining power with an emphasis on making contact, driving the ball, and improving overall execution. The shake-up in the hitting department, with the dismissal of coach Guillermo Martinez and a restructured coaching staff, indicates that the Blue Jays are starting from scratch on their offensive philosophy for 2025. Team President Mark Shapiro also echoed the need for reflection on past seasons, stressing that learning from offensive disappointments will guide how they structure the team going forward.
In summary, while Atkins and the Jays are not dismissing the need for power bats, they are approaching it with a more nuanced view, seeking hitters who offer a combination of power, consistency, and adaptability to improve run production and position the team for success in both the regular season and playoffs.
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