Clubhouse Culture: How the Blue Jays Built a Team That Believes, and Inspired a Nation in the Process
When the Toronto Blue Jays clinched their first World Series berth since 1993, the headlines focused on home runs, pitching stats, and comeback wins. But anyone watching closely could see something deeper at play. This wasn’t just about talent; it was about trust, cohesion, and belief.
In an era where data drives so many of our decisions, the Jays reminded us that culture still wins championships.
Culture at the Core of Strategy
Great teams understand that culture is core to strategy execution and, ultimately, a source of competitive advantage. It shapes how people support one another, respond to setbacks, and pursue shared goals.
Culture isn’t what you write on a wall; it’s what happens when the pressure’s on. For the Jays, that culture didn’t emerge overnight but rather was built intentionally, day by day, in the big moments but also the small ones that no one sees. Manager John Schneider and his staff emphasized trust, daily routines and mutual buy-in. Many players and coaches have commented on the positive shifts in the clubhouse culture this year versus previous seasons. One consistent theme has been about how much they all enjoy being together. Not just from a baseball standpoint, but from a human standpoint. They like each other. As one player said, “ When you care about a group of people on a deeper level than just work, it makes it easier to come in and fight for the guy that’s next to you.”
The Belief Factor
The Jays’ turnaround in results and rankings this season, from last place in the American League East in 2024 to first place in 2025, wasn’t the result of a blockbuster trade or a breakout game. It was belief. Belief in themselves, each other and their ultimate goal of the World Series. The Blue Jays backed that belief with action, coming back to win 50 games they trailed in, the most in the league. Their results underscore that the belief was embedded not just in words, but in every inning they refused to give up.
Belief is contagious. In organizations, it’s what happens when strategy becomes felt, not just understood. Leaders who communicate with conviction, celebrate progress, and demonstrate trust create teams that play bigger than their individual parts. While there were numerous standout moments through the playoffs for the Jays’ top players, there are endless examples of how every single team member contributed and ultimately achieved a result that many were skeptical could be achieved. Well, except for Canadians – we always believed.
Lessons for Leaders
1. Design your culture with purpose and conviction. Don’t assume it will “just happen.” Define the behaviours, rituals, and symbols that reflect your values.
2. Model belief. Confidence and composure start at the top. When leaders stay steady under pressure, teams follow.
3. Celebrate contribution. Recognition reinforces belonging, belonging fuels effort, and effort leads to results.
4. Trust above everything. A healthy culture is grounded in trust. That’s what allows tough conversations and even conflict to turn into stronger collaboration.
In Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, when they needed a big swing, veteran George Springer delivered a go-ahead home run in the bottom of the 7th inning. No panic, just belief. When a team trusts each other that deeply, huge moments become less about pressure and more about execution.
A winning culture is strategic. It aligns people, sustains motivation, and builds resilience when conditions get tough. The Blue Jays’ story reminds us that belief is not a byproduct of success; it’s a prerequisite for it.
GO JAYS GO!!!
At MacPhie, we help leaders build cultures that achieve results, where purpose, trust, and belief drive strategy forward. Click here to learn more about how we help organizations design a winning culture.
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