When Eric Duncan took over as Minor League Field Coordinator for the Toronto Blue Jays in November of 2022, he was inspired by the idea of sculpting his players into Major League stars.

The long-time coach has been tasked with building his minor league talents into Major League Baseball regulars and keeping a World Series win in sight for his parent organization, while also overseeing a culture of success at his level. 

It’s a challenge he believes is important to the culture of success at any ball club.  

“Whether it’s an organizational vision or whether it’s staff to staff. Getting these players to be the best individuals is the most important thing” he said, on an internet call from Dunedin, Fla. “It’s a lot of people coming together to try to help put our players in the best possible spot.”

Throughout that process, he relies on players who are able to push through adversity as well as the building of relationships with those in the program who are willing to put in the extra work through difficult times. 

“Building relationships with players is the most important part of all of it. As a staff member, maybe the most important part of our job is building relationships, building trust so that when the tough times do come, you can be there for them and help them go through it” Duncan said.

“If the player doesn’t trust you, or if he doesn’t have a relationship with you, he’s not going to hear you.”

Two prospects who have made the jump into The Show are third baseman Addison Barger and shortstop Leo Jimenez, who have both impressed since graduating from Dunedin.

Barger, a sixth round draft pick in 2018, had seven home runs, 21 RBI’s, and finished with a .197 batting average during his 2024 rookie season. Jimenez, who also made his debut with the Blue Jays last season, hit four home runs, 19 RBI’s, and posted a .229 batting average. 

When reflecting on the players who have left a lasting mark in his career, Duncan avoids singling out just one and instead gives praise to those he has learned from.

“The best players I’ve been around are the ones that I’ve been able to learn from and are able to challenge you” he said. “It doesn’t take any talent to do these things, I’m going to do them. 

“And then you combine that with guys that actually have talent, that’s when special things happen.”