Blue Jays’ John Schneider Shares Steve Kerr’s Letter After World Series Loss

The letter was from Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who had some words to share with Toronto's manager after he and his team failed to take the final step toward history.

“As I read it,” Schneider said, “I was like, ‘holy (expletive).’”

Kerr reached out after watching Schneider’s leadership during the World Series, feeling "compelled" to get in touch with the manager.

The Warriors' head coach compared the Blue Jays' loss to his own experience in 2016, when his team lost Game 7 of the NBA Finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers after leading the finals 3-1 entering Game 5.

Schneider said the message reinforced what the team has stressed since the loss.

“It was the message we’ve been preaching all offseason and in spring,” Schneider said. “The run was great, and the heartbreak was real, but it’s not going to define who we are.”

Below is the full letter Kerr sent Schneider:

“11.2.25 — Dear John, I don’t know you but I felt compelled to reach out after watching your incredible leadership on display during the World Series. Your poise, your strength, your empathy and your confidence all shines through in all the toughest moments.

“I can see why your players love playing for you. I was just so impressed every time you were interviewed.

“Congrats on an incredible season and I’m so sorry for the heartbreak. We lost Game 7 of the ’16 Finals to Cleveland in similar fashion, and the pain was real. But what always survives through the tough losses is the character and connection of the group. The loss won’t define you, but the way you and your guys carried themselves afterwards will.

“Much respect, Steve Kerr.”