Blue Jays begin early training camp, aim to make strides after wild-card exit last fall

Feelings of optimism, joy and excitement were ever-present Monday at the Toronto Blue Jays' player development complex as a couple dozen players kicked off spring training ahead of the 2023 season.

With light winds gently swaying the tops of the palm trees on a brilliant mid-February morning, the mood was as breezy as the favourable conditions in the Sunshine State for Day 1 of early camp.

Distractions seemed virtually non-existent in a welcome change from this time last year when MLB was mired in a lockout and COVID-19 protocols were still top of mind.

"It's been hectic and busy but [I'm] exactly where I want to be," said manager John Schneider. "I'm excited to get going."

Pitchers and catchers kept busy in one area of the sprawling complex during the morning session. Other players took swings in the batting cages or played soft toss in the outfield.

The camp seemed devoid of any of the pre-season challenges — injury woes, trade requests, positional concerns and the like — that can sometimes hang over the spring training period.

General manager Ross Atkins deserves some credit for the buoyant mood, as he made some intriguing moves in the off-season to help improve run prevention, versatility and team depth.

"We have a pretty set team I think," Schneider said. "There's going to be competition for a few spots and you want to look at those and dive into those at certain positions. Just seeing how the guys play together too and how they mesh.

"Building off of the last month of the season last year and carrying it over into this year and seeing how they come together as a team I think is important this time of year too."

Kevin Kiermaier, Chris Bassitt, Daulton Varsho and Brandon Belt are among the key additions. Out are