New report says the Blue Jays' front office is under the most pressure this season

There's no denying that this season ranks as one of the most important seasons in Blue Jays history. And, according to a new story from The Athletic, it is also one of the most pressure-packed ones.

The Athletic's Jayson Stark released the final part of his survey with MLB insiders (subscription required), with this part focusing on which front offices, managers and teams are under the most pressure. And, perhaps unsurprisingly, the Blue Jays topped the list.

Why the Blue Jays front office is under the most pressure this season

The Jays received 22 votes for being the front office (Mark Shapiro, Ross Atkins and John Schneider) under the most pressure, which is far and away the most (the Cubs were in second place with 12).

Most of that pressure comes from Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s looming extension deadline. Guerrero has earmaked tomorrow as the deadline for an extension from Toronto.

"What does it mean for the fate of a front office that feels haunted by all the stars it chased but couldn’t sign? Stay tuned. There’s a season to play. The fan base is watching. And that whopping vote total tells us the entire sport is riveted on every one of these plot lines — and how they affect the people who run this team and the stars whose time has produced more frustration than thrills," Stark wrote.

An unnamed executive said that Toronto has "a lot on the line" this year.

Stark also added a new part to the survery this year where he asked insiders which player/core group is under the most pressure — another survery the Blue Jays won. Toronto's core led the way with nine votes, while the Phillies were in second place with seven.

It's not hard to see why MLB insiders think every part of the Blue Jays' roster and front office is under pressure this season. Like Guerrero, Bo Bichette is entering his walk year. The front office salvaged free agency with some impact signings, but it doesn't change they fact they spent another offseason as a bridesmaid.

Couple all that with an improved American League East, and you've for a recipe for pressure.

We've got a season to figure out if Toronto will fold under that pressure.