In a recent interview, Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins addressed the speculation surrounding the potential trades of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. Speaking on MLB Network Radio before Sunday's game against the Pirates, Atkins dismissed the idea of trading the franchise cornerstones, emphasizing their talent and importance to the team.

Atkins stated, "It just doesn't make any sense for us. There will be occasional times when you're talking to other executives, when they'll ask if you'd consider it, and we just say it's not something that we have spent any time on. Because they are so talented and such great teammates, they are attractive to other teams, so they will call."

The current state of the Blue Jays, with a record of 27-30 and struggling offense, has led to questions about the team's future. While the possibility of a postseason spot seems challenging, Atkins acknowledged that the organization will need to decide between making a significant push with Guerrero and Bichette in 2025 or exploring other options to extend their contention window.

Atkins expressed his displeasure with recent discussions surrounding potential trades, citing remarks from an AL executive who suggested that the Blue Jays were open to such moves. However, with the team outside the playoff picture and players nearing the end of their club control, these rumors seem inevitable.

Until the Blue Jays regain their competitiveness, Guerrero, Bichette, and other pending free agents like Yusei Kikuchi, Danny Jansen, and Yimi García will continue to be mentioned in trade talks. Additionally, players whose club control ends in 2025 will also face uncertainty.

Despite the ongoing speculation, Atkins remained optimistic about the team's performance in May, particularly highlighting Guerrero's impressive performance. He revealed that extension talks with Guerrero, Bichette, and other key players are ongoing, emphasizing the team's belief in their potential and their desire for long-term commitment.

Another vital aspect under scrutiny in underperforming teams is the manager. Atkins voiced his support for John Schneider, describing his work as "incredible" and emphasizing his role in shaping the team's environment. Refusing to make changes simply for the sake of it, Atkins expressed his confidence in Schneider and his commitment to the team's success.

As the Blue Jays strive to salvage their season, Atkins seems determined to rely on the talent of their star players and the leadership of their manager to change their fortunes. While prospects in Triple-A Buffalo provide potential reinforcements, the decision to start Guerrero at third base suggests a preference for exploring all options within the organization before taking any risks with young rookies.

With the coming weeks and months holding the potential for change, the betting strategy for the Blue Jays, led by Atkins, is to trust in their stars' ability to turn things around and in their manager's ability to guide them back to success.