Blue Jays show promise under Farrell

Normally a fourth-place finish and so-so record would be cause for concern for a team that hasn't reached baseball's post-season in almost two decades.

Instead, things are looking up for rookie manager John Farrell and the Toronto Blue Jays, who appear to have a bright future after retooling over the last year.

Farrell inherited a team that went 85-77 last season in the American League East and will likely finish around the .500 mark this year.

But there are positives that tell another story.

The 49-year-old Farrell has earned the respect of his players and the team is showing promise. MVP candidate Jose Bautista, Canadian Brett Lawrie and pitching ace Ricky Romero have helped create some baseball buzz in a city that has been missing it in recent years.

'The personalities and the people in uniform that are here and growing in that core group of players is one that we can continue to move forward with and build from.' — Blue Jays manager John Farrell

When he looks back at the long campaign, Farrell said he has found it both rewarding and challenging.

"I think the personality that emerged with this group is one that was a competitive one, and yet we're not here just to be competitive," Farrell said in a recent interview. "We're here to turn this organization into being the best that there is.

"We've got work to do. But the personalities and the people in uniform that are here and growing in that core group of players is one that we can continue to move forward with and build from."

Work to be done

At times it has been a learning experience for the club's younger players, who have been able to soak up innings and gain valuable experience. Some strides have been made but there is work to be done if the Jays are going to hang with the big boys in the American League East.

One of the big holes has been the pitching staff. The bullpen has had a tough time closing out games and some starting pitchers have been inconsistent.

Instead of relying on the long ball this season, Farrell has used the team's speed to generate more offence. The bunt is back in fashion and players have been more proactive on the basepaths.

With the youngsters getting plenty of playing time and the roster changing regularly, Farrell guided the team to a 79-77 record entering play Friday night at Tampa.

"This roster has been turned over quite a bit, which is all part of Alex's plan," said Farrell, referring to busy general manager Alex Anthopoulos. "I think the most rewarding thing in that is the plan that was outlined has been steadfast. We haven't veered off of that because of some unforeseen performance or injuries. We haven't changed mid-stream.

"I think through that continuity and consistency, it has allowed all of us to attach to his vision and execute individually as best we can given our roles. This is an exciting group to be around."

Farrell is a commanding presence, whether he's holding court in the dugout or weighing in with tips for players. At six foot four and 220 pounds, the skipper has a serious vibe yet is friendly and approachable.

"He takes it seriously," said outfielder Eric Thames. "That's the kind of guy you want to play for. I love him, we all love him."

Strong work ethic

Farrell pitched over eight seasons in the big leagues before retiring in 1996. From there he moved into coaching and front-office work, landing his first managerial job with Toronto last fall as Cito Gaston's successor.

Farrell, known for his strong work ethic, missed 10 games due to pneumonia a few weeks ago. He adjusted the start of his workday after the illness to make sure that he's getting enough rest.

"I think he's one of those managers that isn't going to get out-prepared by another team," said Jays reliever Casey Janssen.

Farrell pitched in 116 big-league games, spending time with Cleveland, California and Detroit. He then spent five years as assistant coach/pitching and recruiting co-ordinator at Oklahoma State University.

In 2001 he returned to the Indians as director of player development until joining the Boston Red Sox as pitching coach in 2007, a position he held until joining the Blue Jays.

"You can tell that he's been around it for a long time," Thames said. "He knows how to deal with the young guys, deal with the older guys, and it shows ... we all help each other out. The older guys help the young guys.

"It's a team. It's not about personal stats and that's a big thing he's pushing and it's happening here."

Farrell said there will be plenty of time for reflection in the off-season. For now, he's focused on keeping his team above .500 and finishing strong on the season-ending road trip that wraps up Wednesday against the White Sox.

"This is all about a process," Farrell said. "It's not about looking at the last game in Chicago and throwing the shirts in one pile and the pants in another."