Gibbons to return as Blue Jays manager in 2016

John Gibbons will return as manager of the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2016 season, new president of baseball operations Mark Shapiro said Monday.

Shapiro made the announcement during his introductory press conference in Toronto, where he also confirmed the entire front office and coaching staff has been invited to return under their same roles next season.

Gibbons guided the Blue Jays to their first division title in 22 years this season after a slew of high-profile acquisitions helped the team to a 93-60 record atop the American League East. The 53-year-old skipper owns a 555-541 record over parts of eight years and two stints as manager.

"I think (Gibbons') strength, his toughness, his consistency were the hand that this club needed to insure they had the year they had," Shapiro said. "It takes a very special person to be able to guide an incredibly talented group of players like the Blue Jays had, and John did an outstanding job and we're extremely happy to have him back next year."

Shapiro also confirmed assistant general manager Tony LaCava has been promoted to interim GM. LaCava replaces the recently departed Alex Anthopoulos, who turned down a five-year extension with the club last week.