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In a move that could shake up the AL East power dynamics, the Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly seeking permission from the Tampa Bay Rays to interview manager Kevin Cash for their vacant head coaching position.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, along with ESPN insiders Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon, have confirmed Toronto’s interest and ongoing internal discussions. While no formal interview has been scheduled, league sources indicate that the Jays are “conducting active due diligence” as they weigh their managerial options heading into the 2026 season.
Cash, who has been at the helm of the Rays since 2015, is widely respected across baseball for his analytical approach, player development acumen, and calm leadership under pressure. Under his tenure, the Rays have consistently outperformed expectations despite one of the league’s lowest payrolls—most notably reaching the World Series in 2020 and posting winning records in six of the last seven seasons.
The Blue Jays, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them fall short of postseason contention despite a talented core led by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and Alek Manoah. The mid-season dismissal of former manager John Schneider left bench coach Don Mattingly serving in an interim capacity.
Toronto’s front office, led by GM Ross Atkins, is said to be targeting a seasoned leader with playoff experience and a proven ability to foster clubhouse chemistry—qualities that Cash exemplifies.
If Tampa Bay grants permission and an interview proceeds, it would mark one of the rare instances of an in-division managerial shift. However, the Rays are unlikely to let Cash walk without a competitive counteroffer or organizational contingency plan in place.
This story is developing. More updates to follow as the Blue Jays’ managerial search intensifies.
