Indians president Shapiro leaving for Blue Jays
Indians President Mark Shapiro is leaving the club after this season to run Toronto's front office.
Shapiro, who has had several prominent roles in his 24 season with Cleveland, will become the Blue Jays' next president and CEO. He said he's taking on a "unique opportunity" with mixed emotions.
Shapiro will replace Toronto CEO Paul Beeston, who is retiring. The Blue Jays have been looking for a top executive for months and feel they've landed one of the best in Shapiro.
"Mark is a seasoned baseball veteran, whose leadership, drive for excellence, and commitment to all aspects of the game is impressive. We have confidence that he is the right person to lead the Toronto Blue Jays into the future and build upon the franchise's legacy," Blue Jays Chairman Edward Rogers said.
Shapiro has been with Cleveland since 1992, when he began as an assistant in baseball operations. He spent four years as the team's minor league director and three as vice president before becoming general manager in 2001. The Indians made the playoffs twice with Shapiro calling the shots before he took over as team president in 2010.
Shapiro said the decision to leave Cleveland is difficult, and owner Paul Dolan said he will not look for a replacement.
"Given the person that Mark is, the significant leadership and values that he has brought to the organization and with everything he has helped us accomplish, it will be extremely difficult to see him leave," Dolan said.
"However, I hope that this new challenge brings happiness and fulfillment for Mark and his family. As we move forward, I will not be seeking an external replacement for Mark and will continue to rely on the existing strong leadership group to guide us forward.
"Mark and I are confident that moving forward through this transition, we have a very strong foundation in place to build championship level success on and off the field."
The Indians have won five straight games to move back into the AL wild-card picture. Coincidentally, they open a series Monday in Toronto.
