Alek Manoah on Blue Jays’ World Series Run: ‘I Was a Highly Considerable Piece’
Former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah, now with the Los Angeles Angels, believes he contributed significantly to the team’s 2023 postseason success, despite not being on the roster during the playoff run. Manoah’s comments, made during an interview with The Athletic, have sparked discussion among baseball fans.
Manoah’s Perspective
“I was a very big piece of that process, getting to that World Series run,” Manoah told The Athletic’s Sam Blum. “I wasn’t able to be there like I wanted to.” He as well expressed his continued support for his former teammates, stating, “Those are all my friends. A lot of those guys I called my brothers. I rooted for them 100%. I wanted them to win it all.”
Career Trajectory and Recent Challenges
Manoah experienced a breakout season in 2022, finishing third in American League Cy Young Award voting. However, his performance declined significantly in 2023, leading to a demotion to the minor leagues. He posted a 5.87 ERA with 59 walks in 87.1 innings in 2023, a stark contrast to his previous success.
Injury and Departure from Toronto
In May 2024, Manoah underwent Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL in his right elbow. MLB.com reports that he made several starts with the Blue Jays’ Triple-A affiliate in Buffalo before being released in September 2024, prior to the playoffs. The Blue Jays did not publicly state the specific reasons for his release.
Move to the Angels
Following his release, Manoah was claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Braves but was later non-tendered and became a free agent. In December 2025, he signed a one-year, $1.95 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, a deal that is fully guaranteed, according to Sporting News.
Looking Ahead
Manoah expressed a desire to reshape the narrative surrounding his career. “I experience like some narratives can be created on their own,” he said to The Athletic. He remains optimistic about his future, stating that his past struggles will “only create my platform bigger” and “make my voice a lot bigger for people that go through a lot of tough stuff.” Manoah has reportedly been showing improved velocity during spring training, and is confident in his ability to return to form. Wikipedia notes that Manoah was drafted 11th overall by the Blue Jays in the 2019 First-Year Player Draft.