Justin Lehr, a former MLB pitcher with experience across multiple leagues, has joined the Toronto Blue Jays organization to oversee their minor league pitching operations. Lehr previously worked with the San Francisco Giants as a minor league pitching coach, and now, in his new role, he aims to bring his expertise to help the Blue Jays reach higher standards in player development.
Lehr’s playing career spanned from the MLB to international leagues, including the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), where he pitched for the Doosan Bears. With a background that includes stints with the Oakland Athletics, Milwaukee Brewers, and Cincinnati Reds, Lehr is well-versed in the challenges and strategies of pitching at a professional level. His experiences, especially in developing younger players within the Giants organization, will be invaluable as he takes on this new role with the Blue Jays.
The Blue Jays have been focusing heavily on developing their farm system, and Lehr’s addition to the staff underscores their commitment to enhancing their minor league infrastructure. With his diverse pitching background, Lehr is expected to work closely with young pitchers, guiding them through the rigorous demands of professional baseball while helping them refine their skills and prepare for potential major league call-ups.
Lehr’s involvement also marks a crucial step in ensuring that the Blue Jays’ up-and-coming pitchers are receiving the necessary coaching to compete at the highest levels. His goal, as stated, is to help the team achieve “high standards,” which likely refers to both individual player improvement and overall team success as these pitchers progress through the minors and potentially into the majors.
Lehr’s blend of hands-on coaching and experience from his playing days will be key to the Blue Jays’ efforts to strengthen their pipeline of talent, making him a valuable asset to their coaching staff.
