CLEVELAND: One of the major architects for the direction of the Indians’ franchise the past two-and-half decades is leaving for bluer pastures, as President Mark Shapiro announced that at season’s end, he’ll be joining the Toronto Blue Jays front office as president and CEO.
Shapiro, a two-time Sporting News Executive of the Year, is in his 24th year with the Indians organization. Most notably in that span, he served as General Manager for nine seasons (2002-2010) and the last five as president.
Shapiro thanked the Dolan family, former Indians GM John Hart, current Indians GM Chris Antonetti and others, saying it was those relationships — as well as his relationship with the community — that made his decision more difficult, evidenced by his having to fight back tears on Monday.