Blue Jays Fire Gaston

Cito Gaston, who managed the Toronto Blue Jays to World Series championships in 1992 and 1993, was fired Wednesday with his team in last place in the American League East.

General manager Gord Ash said pitching coach Mel Queen would manage the team the final five games.

Gaston is the third manager fired this season, following Cincinnati’s Ray Knight and Kansas City’s Bob Boone.

Ash, whose team is 72-86, said he hopes to have a new manager by the winter meetings in December.

“Cito Gaston is a quality baseball person,” he said. “Loyal, dedicated with a concern for everyone’s wellbeing. The Blue Jays have enjoyed our greatest success during his tenure.

“However, during the past three seasons, our club has not responded to the challenges of competing in the American League East. Certainly, the players have failed, the organization has failed and I have failed.

“However, the manager, as unfair as it might be, must be responsible and accountable for the lack of results on the field.”

Gaston, 53, joined the Blue Jays in 1982 as a hitting instructor and was replaced by Jimy Williams as manager on May 15, 1989.