TORONTO – Whether it was at the draft, the trade deadline, or during free agency, Ross Atkins has always emphasized one consistent principle during his decade as general manager of the Toronto Blue Jays — the importance of values.

Every time a potential addition to the roster was discussed, Atkins was quick to highlight the importance of “high character” players. This season, he believes that philosophy has paid off in the biggest way possible, with the Blue Jays reaching the World Series for the first time in 32 years.

Atkins credits the team’s cohesiveness, dedication, and mutual respect as key factors in their success. “I’ve always been taught and learned and believed strongly that hiring and identification of — whether it be players, coaches, scouts, anyone that’s helping support the organization — that hiring’s the most important thing we do,” Atkins said during a news conference on Friday, ahead of Game 1 of the World Series.

He added, “If you do that with values that are important to you, then over time, that’s going to pay off for you.”

The Blue Jays’ 2025 run has been marked by strong locker-room chemistry, resilience through adversity, and a shared belief in teamwork — traits Atkins says stem directly from prioritizing personal integrity alongside athletic skill.

As Toronto fans rally behind their team on baseball’s biggest stage, Atkins’ long-term vision for a culture-driven organization appears to have finally come to fruition.