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Blue Jays Have MLB's Best Pregame Ritual, Thanks to Kazuma Okamoto

Blue Jays Have MLB's Best Pregame Ritual, Thanks to Kazuma Okamoto

Summary

The Toronto Blue Jays lost a close World Series in 2025 but have struggled early in the 2026 season. New third baseman Kazuma Okamoto introduced a "circle of gratitude" pregame ritual that helps the team share thankfulness and bond.

Key Facts

  • The Blue Jays lost the 2025 World Series in Game 7 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
  • The Dodgers tied the game in the ninth inning and won in the 11th.
  • The Blue Jays' 2026 season started with a record of 12 wins and 15 losses, with many injured players.
  • Kazuma Okamoto joined the Blue Jays in 2026 with a four-year, $60 million contract.
  • Okamoto began a pregame ritual called the "circle of gratitude," where players share what they are thankful for.
  • The ritual helps Okamoto feel more welcomed and connected to the team.
  • Okamoto was a six-time All-Star in Japan and hit a critical home run for Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
  • In his first MLB month, Okamoto has a batting average of .229 with five home runs and 11 runs batted in (RBI).
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