Buck Martinez has made a move that has surprised fans and quietly reshaped the organization’s future. The Toronto Blue Jays are bringing back one of their most trusted figures, appointing the legendary commentator and former player as special advisor starting in 2026.

In a quietly announced decision that caught many in the baseball world off guard, the Toronto Blue Jays have secured the services of Buck Martinez in a new front-office role, naming him special advisor to the organization’s leadership beginning in the 2026 season.

The move reunites one of the franchise’s most enduring icons with the team in a capacity that extends beyond his familiar voice in the broadcast booth, signaling a strategic effort to infuse institutional knowledge and continuity into the Blue Jays’ long-term planning.

Martinez, now 77, has been synonymous with the Blue Jays for over four decades. His journey with the club began in 1981 when he was acquired in a trade from the Milwaukee Brewers, stepping in as a reliable catcher during a pivotal era for the young franchise.

Over six seasons in Toronto, he became a fan favorite for his gritty play behind the plate, most memorably in a 1985 game where he suffered a severe ankle injury but still completed a dramatic double play.

That resilience defined his playing style, as he platooned effectively with Ernie Whitt and contributed to the team’s emerging identity in the American League East.

After retiring following the 1986 season, Martinez transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, starting as a color analyst for Blue Jays games in 1987. His insightful commentary, warm storytelling, and deep passion for the game quickly made him a staple for generations of fans.

He has called thousands of games, capturing iconic moments from the 1992 and 1993 World Series championships to more recent playoff runs. Even during his brief stint as manager from 2001 to mid-2002, where he guided a rebuilding squad with enthusiasm, Martinez’s connection to the organization never wavered.

His return to the booth in 2010, initially as play-by-play announcer and later sharing duties, solidified his status as the voice of summer in Toronto.

The appointment as special advisor comes at a fascinating juncture for the Blue Jays. Following their thrilling 2025 World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers—the franchise’s third championship—the organization is focused on sustaining success amid a competitive division and evolving league landscape.

General manager Ross Atkins and president Mark Shapiro have emphasized building a perennial contender, blending homegrown talent like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with strategic acquisitions. Martinez’s wealth of experience positions him uniquely to contribute wisdom on player development, scouting, and organizational culture.

Sources close to the team indicate that Martinez will advise on various fronts, including mentoring young players, evaluating prospects, and providing input on roster decisions. His history as a player, manager, and broadcaster gives him a rare 360-degree perspective on the game.

Having witnessed the Blue Jays’ transformation from expansion team to powerhouse, he understands the nuances of what makes the franchise tick—from the importance of defensive catchers to fostering a winning mindset in a hockey-dominant market.

Fans were initially surprised by the news, as Martinez has been a fixture in the Sportsnet broadcast booth, most recently returning triumphantly in 2025 after battling health issues, including a recurrence of cancer that sidelined him earlier in the year.

His emotional comebacks and passionate calls during the postseason run endeared him even more to the fanbase. Many wondered if this might signal a step toward retirement from broadcasting. However, the role appears designed to complement his on-air work, allowing him to reduce travel while remaining deeply involved.

This isn’t Martinez’s first foray into advisory positions; he has long been respected across baseball, serving as president of the Baseball Assistance Team and contributing to international events like the World Baseball Classic. But returning to the Blue Jays in an official capacity feels poetic.

The organization has a tradition of honoring its legends—think Pat Gillick or Paul Beeston—and bringing Martinez into the fold ensures his influence endures.

The move also subtly addresses the Blue Jays’ future beyond the current core. With questions lingering about contract extensions for stars and the integration of new talent, Martinez’s institutional memory could prove invaluable.

He has often spoken publicly about the team’s potential, expressing optimism about retaining key players and building on recent success. His voice carries weight in the clubhouse and among fans, potentially aiding in recruitment and morale.

For an organization that prides itself on stability, this appointment is a masterstroke. It’s a nod to history while looking ahead, bridging the glory days of the early 1990s with the modern era.

Martinez himself has expressed gratitude for the opportunity, reportedly eager to give back in a hands-on way after years of observing from afar.

As the Blue Jays prepare for 2026, with hopes of defending their title and expanding their global footprint, having Buck Martinez as a special advisor adds an intangible layer of authenticity. It’s a quiet reshape, indeed—one that honors the past and fortifies the future.

Fans may miss fewer “Get up, ball!” calls if his broadcasting load lightens, but they’ll gain comfort knowing one of their most trusted figures is helping steer the ship. In baseball, where change is constant, some constants are priceless.