The 53-year-old Gibbons had received a muted and somewhat mixed reaction from the crowd in previous years, but not so on Thursday.
Gibbons certainly appreciated the gratitude, but he knows better than anyone how quickly that praise might disappear if his team struggles. And with Spring Training set to open for pitchers and catchers on Feb. 22, the Blue Jays have some pressing issues to address.
Here are some highlights of what Gibbons had to say about the closer, the leadoff spot, the fifth starter, Devon Travis and Drew Hutchison:
Will Aaron Sanchez get an opportunity to start?