JOSE BAUTISTA

He may be retired but the Blue Jays legend is busier than ever

- ANDREA KARR

When José Bautista calls Hello! Canada from Tampa Bay, Fla., he's found a spare moment between games - but not the kind the former Toronto Blue Jays player is best known for. “I’m at a volleyball tournament with my daughters,” he explains after finding a quiet place to chat. The six-time Major League Baseball All-Star - affectionately known as “Joey Bats” to fans - still keeps a busy schedule, prioritizing family time with his wife, Neisha, and their four growing girls (plus three energetic dogs).

Having retired in 2023, José made his loved ones proud this past June when he was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame. “It’s a great honour to be part of baseball history in Canada,” says the athlete whose 2015 “bat flip” remains one of the sport's most iconic moments.

Thanks to his time in the big leagues, the 44-year-old has a unique platform, and he loves using it in new and different ways. Recently, he teamed with Canada’s own Mary Brown's Chicken as the face of its aptly titled Batter’s Box combo. The Sweet Habanero sauce “has a good twist to it,” he promises.

Here, the Toronto legend reflects on his baseball legacy, self-improvement journey and life as a girl dad.

LASTING IMPRESSION