Blue Jays: Why was Charlie Montoyo’s option exercised right now?

The Blue Jays announced that they’ve exercised Charlie Montoyo’s contract option for 2022. Why did they make that decision now rather than later?

It’s a fair question, and it’s likely not a simple answer. However, in the most simplistic of terms, the Puerto Rican skipper has manned the ship that’s seen this young team go from 67-95 in 2019, to a playoff appearance in 2020 with a 32-28 record. Granted the improvement came during a shortened schedule, but there was a noticeable shift from a rebuilding team to a club in the hunt for a playoff spot.

How much of the credit belongs to Montoyo is a debatable question, but it appears that Ross Atkins, Mark Shapiro, and the rest of the front office are willing to give him a vote of confidence right now. From Sportsnet’s story on his extension from Tuesday:

"“He is very steady in game, his instincts are incredible, his collaboration with all of his staff has just continued to be a strength,” Atkins said. The character, the ability to create a very positive, constructive environment is very encouraging. I couldn’t be happier working alongside him.”"

That’s certainly a strong vote of confidence, and a great window into some of the value he brings behind the scenes.

Beyond being pleased with Montoyo’s work through his first two seasons as the Blue Jays manager, there are likely at least a couple more reasons they’re keeping him around. It’s clear that the 55-year-old manager has bought into the work of the analytics department in Toronto and I’m sure that’s a trait that the front office appreciates. I’m not suggesting that they’re micromanaging his work, but I’m sure they want to see the organizational philosophies being pushed by the on-field manager.

In addition to all of that, it’s also fair to point out that managers don’t work as “lame ducks” all that often in professional sports. It’s more common for a franchise to make a change in the manager’s seat, or extend the contract before entering the final year of a deal. Montoyo had the option, so the Jays could have made the argument that there was some job security for their bench boss, but this way they’re guaranteeing his role, at least on paper.

The biggest plus is that Montoyo will be able to work this season without worrying so much about his fate for next year. I’m sure he would have been focused on the job either way, but now he likely won’t have to field questions about his future in 2022 or beyond. And let’s face it, who doesn’t appreciate a vote of confidence from their bosses?

I know there is a section of the Blue Jays fan base that wonders why this decision had to be made now, and I can understand that to a certain degree. On the other hand, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise to me at all either, and hopefully the partnership and growth of the Blue Jays under Montoyo’s watch will continue to work.