Does Ross Atkins Need To Go ALL IN At The Trade Deadline? - The Homestand Show

July 20, 2023

Ross Atkins and Masai Ujiri are both notable sports executives who have managed their respective teams in Toronto. They have different approaches and strategies in their roles as general managers. The debate revolves around whether a GM should be aggressive and "cutthroat" to make big moves to improve the team's chances of winning.

In the context of sports management, being "cutthroat" and aggressive generally means being willing to make bold decisions, even if they may be unpopular, to improve the team's roster and chances of success. This can involve making trades, signings, or releases that might be seen as risky but could potentially yield significant rewards.

Masai Ujiri, as the Raptors' general manager, has been known for making daring moves, such as trading DeMar DeRozan to acquire Kawhi Leonard, which ultimately led to the Raptors' first NBA championship. This decision was seen as cutthroat because it involved parting ways with a beloved star player but proved successful in the end.

On the other hand, Ross Atkins, the general manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, has been criticized by some fans for not making similarly aggressive moves to strengthen the team. Some fans might argue that the Blue Jays should be willing to take risks, trade valuable assets, and invest in top-tier talent to maximize their chances of winning during the prime years of their young stars like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

However, it's essential to balance this aggressiveness with a long-term perspective. While making big moves to improve the team's immediate chances is important, a GM also needs to consider the team's future and avoid jeopardizing it by sacrificing too much in the present. Building a successful team often involves a delicate balance between short-term success and long-term sustainability.

Ultimately, the debate about whether a GM should be cutthroat and aggressive or more cautious is subjective and depends on the team's specific circumstances, the talent available, and the management's overall strategy. Both aggressive moves and measured decisions can lead to success if implemented wisely and with a clear vision for the team's future.