Watching the Toronto Blue Jays in their current playoff journey brings back memories of a different era in baseball for former left-handed pitcher Vince Horsman. Horsman, originally from Dartmouth, N.S., had a career in the major leagues, including a stint with the Blue Jays in 1991, playing 141 games over five seasons.
In an age where baseball decisions heavily rely on analytics and power-hitting dominates, Horsman appreciates the Jays’ diverse approach, utilizing the entire field alongside their power hitters. He shared his thoughts with CBC News before Game 2 of the World Series between the Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, where the Dodgers tied the series at 1-1 with a 5-1 win.
With over four decades dedicated to professional baseball, Horsman transitioned from playing to coaching and has worked in various countries, currently serving as a pitching coach with the 7-Eleven Unilions in Tainan City, Taiwan. Having coached extensively in the Jays’ farm system for 14 years, he remains connected to many of the current coaching staff.
Horsman’s journey into professional baseball began unexpectedly after catching the eye of a Jays scout during a national tournament in 1984. Despite initial setbacks, he eventually signed with the team as an international free agent, starting his minor league career and eventually making his way to the major leagues with the Blue Jays in 1991.
Reflecting on his time playing for the Jays and the Oakland Athletics, Horsman recalls the excitement of facing top-tier competition and the thrill of playoff games. He now finds fulfillment in coaching and embracing the history and culture of the places he has lived, a passion he might have pursued as a history teacher if not for baseball.
As the only Nova Scotian to play for the Blue Jays and one of few from the province to reach the majors, Horsman’s journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing the possibilities that unfolded for a kid from Nova Scotia who found success in the world of professional baseball.