The Toronto Blue Jays have confirmed that John Gibbons will return as manager next season.

The Blue Jays were expected to be a power in the American League, but have disappointed and are in last place in the AL East. Many have made Gibbons the scapegoat.

"Yes, there's never been any thought in that respect at all," Alex Anthopoulos said when asked if Gibbons will be returning.

"John is our manager, and we expect him to be. But I understand what the response is. When you're not playing well as a team, these are the things that happen. You talk about the GM, the manager, you talk about the players ... people want a reason, and changes usually come when players aren't playing well and teams aren't performing. I think that comes with the territory."