Ontario Blue Jays suspend coach Dan Bleiwas

The Ontario Blue Jays have suspended its head coach Dan Bleiwas.

Bleiwas, director of baseball operations was allegedly involved in an incident with a player approximately 15 years ago.

The Ontario Blue Jays say they took action after hearing allegations on Feb. 12 and immediately notified Peel police. Bleiwas has been instructed to avoid all contact with coaches, players and their families.

“As an organization dedicated to providing a safe environment where kids can thrive, the Ontario Blue Jays has zero tolerance for any behavior that threatens the security and well-being of our players,” wrote head of player development Sean Travers in the statement received by the Canadian Baseball Network Saturday afternoon.

Travers also emailed all parents on inviting them to a town hall meeting at their Mississauga clubhouse Thursday night. Travers said it would be an opportunity to ask questions.

In the email Travers wrote “The safety and security of all staff and players is our utmost priority. Though the alleged abuse occurred 15 years ago, we would like other potential victims to know that they will be supported in coming forward.” 

Peel police told the Toronto Star “details usually become public if a charge has been laid.”

Bleiwas has coached in the Ontario Blue Jays system since 1999 after previously being with Team Ontario.

Come draft time the Ontario Blue Jays dominate the crowded elite draft scene in Ontario and coast to coast. Last June the Ontario Blue Jays had the most players drafted for a fifth consecutive season: nine in 2015, seven in 2014, seven in 2012, six in 2013, seven in 2012 and four in 2011, sharing the top spot with the Ontario Terriers. 

The organization consists this season of 14 teams from 12U-to-18U encompassing 228 players. The Ontario Blue Jays moved into a new 53,000 square foot building in Mississauga this winter. 

The Toronto Blue Jays originally were involved in supporting the Ontario Blue Jays (old uniforms, equipment, etc.) but that relationship came to an end in either 19997 or 1998.

Bleiwas is also a scout for the Cincinnati Reds and has worked for the San Diego Padres and the Atlanta Braves as well.