Toronto Blue Jays

[T-Bone]

http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/53/78/full/2559d7603ouedg7ldhw0br4fn.png

Beautiful (http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=19997845&topic_id=&c_id=tor&tcid=vpp_copy_19997845&v=3)!

[argolio]

Ugly! .

[Argofan]

I really like this, Kudos to the BLUE Jays
Thanks T-bone

[R.J]

Very happy with this decision to go back to the "Blue" Jays, the logo should never have been changed period. Paul Beeston with Jeff Blair (http://www.fan590.com/ondemand/media.jsp?content=20111118_163023_14204).

[Will]

Very happy with the new jerseys.

[matchuk]

by far the best logo they have had!

[jwmann2]

Love the new royal blue look. Why did the Marlins have to go all Don Johnson on us?
Also, still pretty disappointed the Jays didn't win in the Yu Darvish sweepstakes. Would love to see him pitch against the Yankees.

[Will]

Love the new royal blue look. Why did the Marlins have to go all Don Johnson on us?
Also, still pretty disappointed the Jays didn't win in the Yu Darvish sweepstakes. Would love to see him pitch against the Yankees.

I am disappointed, but I guess we have to hope that he is the next Irabu.

[matchuk]

i love the new logo

[294life]

Bob Elliot of the Toronto Sun wins the J.G. Taylor Spink award for sportswriting at the baseball hall of fame. Jack Morris missed the cut. Barry Larkin and Ron Santo the only player inductees.

[DanTheFan]

The Jays have extened Morrow for 3 years at $20 million: http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120123&content_id=26446464&vkey=news_tor&c_id=tor
A (http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120123&content_id=26446464&vkey=news_tor&c_id=tor)nd in the "I thought he retired" category, they gave Omar Vizquel a minor league contract: http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120123&content_id=26445632&vkey=news_tor&c_id=tor

[ArgoRavi]

I agree with Steve Buffery's scathing criticism of Rogers in this column: http://www.torontosun.com/2012/01/25/jays-owners-worse-than-pal-hal

There really is no reason why Rogers can't spend with the likes of the Yankees and Red Sox but they simply do not want to which should give fans an idea as to their commitment towards winning. As Buffery alludes to, they control so much of the media that they escape a lot of the criticism that they deserve.

[Will]

The Blue Jays have spent most of their off-season solidifying their bullpen. That area was a problem last year and I do believe they had stabilized it bringing in Sergio Santos, Francisco Cordero, Darren Oliver and re-acquiring Jason "The Human Rain Delay" Frasor. However, I am still concerned about the rotation outside of Romero. Brandon Morrow extended for a few years, but hasn't been able to find consistency. I am also still concerned about the Jays at 2B and in two of the outfield spots. They haven't made any progress against Boston, New York or Tampa IMO even if the stability in the bullpen wins them a few more games. They're probably looking at another 80-85 win season, which is where they've been for the last...oh...15 years more or less.

See, Rogers has to recognize that, yeah attendance isn't great, but attendance won't go up until people have a reason to go to the baseball game. When you know what you're going to get it's not fun to go to the ballpark on a regular basis. I also agree with Buffery that this "small market" stuff has got to stop. Toronto is one of the largest cities in North America so don't sit there and tell me we face problems like Oakland or Kansas City in that regard. Of course (and to the delight of some on here I'm sure) that with Rogers now owning the Leafs they'll put much more focus on that asset rather than the Blue Jays.

[DanTheFan]

The Jays signed Roger Clemens' son Koby to a minor league deal. He had a good 2009 in a weaker league, but has since struggled. http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/02/09/roger-clemens-son-koby-clemens-signs-with-blue-jays/

[294life]

Farewell Gary Carter. Before the Blue Jays became something you did much for baseball in Canada. RIP. :cry:

[Will]

Farewell Gary Carter. Before the Blue Jays became something you did much for baseball in Canada. RIP. :cry:

Yes, those teams in Montreal in the late 1970's and early 1980's were certainly very good. Had some trouble getting over the hump, but the Blue Jays were also no exception to that rule until 1992.

[294life]

Yes, those teams in Montreal in the late 1970's and early 1980's were certainly very good. Had some trouble getting over the hump, but the Blue Jays were also no exception to that rule until 1992.

Just unfortuante to fall to the very 3 teams that were going to win their respective world series in 79-80-81. By a hair each time.

[1argoholic]

As pissed as I am at Rogers and their treatment of the Argos they finally have done something right. I used to be a huge Blue Jay fan and that is the BEST logo for them period. No need to go all modern and stupid. Yes The Argos should be next with the boat. History means plenty and we're losing a ton of it.

[Will]

As pissed as I am at Rogers and their treatment of the Argos they finally have done something right. I used to be a huge Blue Jay fan and that is the BEST logo for them period. No need to go all modern and stupid. Yes The Argos should be next with the boat. History means plenty and we're losing a ton of it.

Even if the Argos don't choose to go back to the boat logo, I'd like to see them go back to a uniform design similar to what was worn in the 1980's.

[294life]

As pissed as I am at Rogers and their treatment of the Argos they finally have done something right. I used to be a huge Blue Jay fan and that is the BEST logo for them period. No need to go all modern and stupid. Yes The Argos should be next with the boat. History means plenty and we're losing a ton of it.

I totally agree for the Blue Jays logo. The old argo logo is one my faves too.

Big tribute to Carter at the Habs game last night. Big slap in the face to Montreal for not keeping its baseball team. Even Winnipeg and Regina are better baseball cities than Montreal now. :(

[R.J]

Even though I'm not a baseball fan, I'm happy that the Blue Jays went back to their roots. 1argoholic is right, way too many logo/jersey changes in sports, should just stick with the classics. http://studenttrip.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/800_blue_jays_new_uniform_cp_11118.jpg

[Will]

I like the new jerseys as well, particularly the road greys. I was always a fan of the old road greys from the early 90's.

[Will]

The Blue Jays have had a hot spring so far. While spring training means very little there are some very promising signs. Brett Lawrie looks really good so far and should hopefully be an anchor at third for the Blue Jays. Each of the potential starters have also looked good so far this spring. I was most concerned about the rotation outside of Ricky Romero and maybe Brandon Morrow, but Brett Cecil and Henderson Alvarez have both looked good as well.

[DanTheFan]

22-4. I know it's just pre-season, but DAAAAAAAAAAAMN!!

[Will]

22-4. I know it's just pre-season, but DAAAAAAAAAAAMN!!

I did a bit of research. The World Series winners from 1984-2006 had an above .500 record in spring training 12 times. Neither the 1992 or 1993 Toronto Blue Jays had a winning record in spring training before going on to win the World Series.

[Will]

The Blue Jays took flight yesterday with a 7-4 win over Cleveland. In 16 innings! That is the longest opener in MLB history. J.P Arencibia was the hero with a 3-run shot in the top of the 16th. The Jays bullpen was also extremely effective.

[Will]

2-0 with another come from behind win. The Blue Jays can't seem to get much going against the Cleveland starters, but were able to stay in the game until they could get to the Indians' bullpen.

[Mulder]

T-Bone and I are heading tonights and Sundays game If anyone wanted to join for a beerisk

[ArgoRavi]

Here is an article from Saturday's Globe and Mail on the continuing attendance struggles of the Blue Jays: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/baseball/where-oh-where-have-all-the-fans-gone/article2449815/

[Will]

Here is an article from Saturday's Globe and Mail on the continuing attendance struggles of the Blue Jays: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/baseball/where-oh-where-have-all-the-fans-gone/article2449815/

I bet your rejoicing.

The Blue Jays attendance has been reasonable on weekends, but non-existent during the week. It never got to as low as 10k-11k like the last few years, but Baltimore and Tampa continue not to draw.

[ArgoRavi]

I bet your rejoicing.

The Blue Jays attendance has been reasonable on weekends, but non-existent during the week. It never got to as low as 10k-11k like the last few years, but Baltimore and Tampa continue not to draw.

I can't wish that much ill will on the Jays when I know that you are a fan, Will. :D I just found this interesting because the Jays are in a similar boat to the Argos with their attendance and seem to be trying some of the same things (i.e., using social media) to improve their numbers.

[ArgoRavi]

This came from the following article about the Jays: http://www.torontosun.com/2012/06/14/not-looking-good-for-jays

"If you are a fan it’s probably time to take off your Blue Jays hat, fire it into the back of your closet, root around and pluck out your Argos cap."

Anyway, speaking of the Jays, are they really not just meeting expectations for this season? I know that their phenomenal spring training record raised expectations even though it should not have but most predicted prior to that that this would be a .500 team.

[Will]

The Blue Jays haven't been getting any consistent starting pitching outside of Brandon Morrow. He is now out indefinitely with a strained oblique muscle. Ricky Romero has struggled with his mechanics this year and while his record is descent his ERA is above 4.

[DanTheFan]

Good news: I'm going to the Jays/Phillies game tomorrow. Bad news: I just read that Hutchison left the game today with injury/soreness. :ohno:

[Will]

Good news: I'm going to the Jays/Phillies game tomorrow. Bad news: I just read that Hutchison left the game today with injury/soreness. :ohno:

That's three pitchers gone in four days! I wonder if that's unprecedented?

[Hollaway]

Great crowd on hand for the Blue Jays vs Angels on Canada Day game in TO yesterday, and Cordero blows another game, very disappointing, what are they waiting for to get rid of this guy.

[Will]

Another Blue Jays pitcher Luis Perez goes to the DL. This is getting ridiculous now!

[Hollaway]

Yeah, what the heck is going on? Talk about a jinx, wow.

[ArgoRavi]

Here is another attendance update on the Jays: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/baseball/despite-rash-of-injuries-fading-jays-still-drawing-good-crowds/article4472581/

The attendance is looking much better now than it was earlier in the season.

[DanTheFan]

As good a reason as any to bump this thread: http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/story/?id=409433


(http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/story/?id=409433)

[1argoholic]

Different names brought in to see more of the same results.

[ArgoRavi]

Different names brought in to see more of the same results.

I believe that Reyes is a top notch player but the records for each of the starting pitchers that the Jays are getting didn't exactly blow me away. Miami finished with a worse record than the Jays last year so the players that each team is trading did not exactly lead their respective teams to glory. Apparently though, the Jays, at least according to the Toronto media, have fleeced the Marlins and Miami has decided to go with a bare bones roster financially for some reason.

[Downtownfan]

This move says to me that the Jays "Bills in Toronto" experiment is completely dead. there is no way Rogers will spend more money on that fiasco now that they have committed to a massive new salary expenditure for the Jays. expect some quiet announcement in February...

[argolio]

This move says to me that the Jays "Bills in Toronto" experiment is completely dead. there is no way Rogers will spend more money on that fiasco now that they have committed to a massive new salary expenditure for the Jays. expect some quiet announcement in February...Interesting take, and highly plausible considering we've heard nothing about renewing those games in months.

Putting on my conspiracy hat (which I always do when it involves the Jays), this can only be a plot to take attention away from the Argos and the Grey Cup. :D

[Scotty]

More Jays news, Toronto blue jays reportedly sign Melky Cabrera,

http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/11/16/blue-jays-reportedly-sign-melky-cabrera-to-two-year-deal/

[1argoholic]

All of a sudden the Jays are going nuts with deals and signings right before Grey Cup 100. Jays will still be the Jays.

[Ron]

All of a sudden the Jays are going nuts with deals and signings right before Grey Cup 100. Jays will still be the Jays.

Yes. I am so sure the Jays waited until Grey Cup to make these deals with Miami. I'm sure it had nothing to do with the many other teams trying to make deals at this time for those same players.

The Jays will still be the Jays. The last time they made a deal like this they won two Championships. Not saying they will now ... but at least one should know what "Jays being the Jays" actually means in the context of what's actually happening in the world. ;)

[LLB997]

I find interesting how Jays fans always bashing the Yanks for buying not building are all of a sudden changing their tune. Hope the Jays and Yanks crash and burn in 2013, Go Rays.
As far as the bills in TO. I heard today that they have anounced mr. Gangnam Style to play the halftime of the Bills/Seahawks tilt. I guess they want to outdo the Grey Cups crappy pop music with some crappy pop music of their own. I expect i small spike in Koreans who will leave by the end of the 3rd quarter.

[Ron]

I believe that Reyes is a top notch player but the records for each of the starting pitchers that the Jays are getting didn't exactly blow me away. Miami finished with a worse record than the Jays last year so the players that each team is trading did not exactly lead their respective teams to glory. Apparently though, the Jays, at least according to the Toronto media, have fleeced the Marlins and Miami has decided to go with a bare bones roster financially for some reason.

You don't follow baseball therefore the pitchers do not blow you away. (If you did follow you would not have said that) Also the comment on the players not leading to glory is silly. Alomar and Carter did not lead anyone to glory before the Jays got them. You have many times regarding the Argos stated that the "new arrival" would be good here even though they were nothing to write home about on their previous club.

As to Miami. The "for some reason" is well known as that owner will reboot when he sees the team he has going nowhere. They won a Championship in 97 and then he blew it up. Well they rebuilt and won another championship a few years later. He kept that team together for a couple of year but blew them up when he saw them slide a bit. This version of the rebuild didn't pan out as expected ... so he's blowing it up again. Pretty smart since his plan worked twice now.

[1argoholic]

Proof will be on the field next year. Mark my words that the Jays will perhaps do more than this year but I don't expect a bunch of guys from a horrible Marlin team to help. I once cared bigtime about the Jays but now I really couldn't give a crap.

[Gill The Thrill]

All of a sudden the Jays are going nuts with deals and signings right before Grey Cup 100. Jays will still be the Jays.

And then they go prove how not serious they are about really contending by bringing back their worst manager in history...John Gibbons. Strangely enough, the last time the team spent any money was the last time he was here, and that did not go to well....Obviously Anthopolous is not a believer in that saying, "Insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results." The Gibbons hiring had all board room written all over it...spend some money because they have to do damage control to save their season ticket base, but don't spend money on a manager that will demand even more of a commitment.

[ArgoRavi]

And then they go prove how not serious they are about really contending by bringing back their worst manager in history...John Gibbons. Strangely enough, the last time the team spent any money was the last time he was here, and that did not go to well....Obviously Anthopolous is not a believer in that saying, "Insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results." The Gibbons hiring had all board room written all over it...spend some money because they have to do damage control to save their season ticket base, but don't spend money on a manager that will demand even more of a commitment.

I don't follow the Jays as closely as I used to but that certainly was a perplexing move to bring back Gibbons.

[DanTheFan]

I think despite his 88-74 record, Tim Johnson would rank near the bottom for Jays managers. Lied about Vietnam experiences to teach and motivate the team.

[Gill The Thrill]

I think despite his 88-74 record, Tim Johnson would rank near the bottom for Jays managers. Lied about Vietnam experiences to teach and motivate the team.What does lying about Vietnam have to do with his ability as a baseball manager?? The guy seemed to be a tortured soul because he knew people that went and died and felt that he should of gone...that's a pure case of survivor's guilt.

Gibbons on the other hand can't make the right decisions, cannot manage to manufacture runs or what the media sometimes refer to as "small ball" which makes it sound negative but is smart managing. It's why the National has started to dominate in the World Series despite the American League divisions looking stronger in the regular season.

[294life]

screw cooperstown. i'm going to st-mary's

http://baseballhalloffame.ca/news/feature/bell-and-raines-to-headline-canadian-ball-halls-class-of-2013/

[T-Bone]

Dear Roomie (http://instagram.com/p/XmtQ1ch3UU/)

[Will]

It begins tonight. The Blue Jays are good on paper, but that means nothing until they prove it in the regular season.

[matchuk]

if they can stay healthy, they will be a hard team to beat...

[Argocister]

Dear Roomie (http://instagram.com/p/XmtQ1ch3UU/)

Classy! :)

[294life]

As it stands it looks like Francona will make believers of the Tribe. He has an uncanny resemblance to Milanovich.

[ArgoRavi]

A surprising 0-2 start for the Blue Jays.

[Will]

Yeah, the pitching was a bit shaky in the opener, but I'm not going to blame it for either loss.

[gilthethrill]

As it stands it looks like Francona will make believers of the Tribe. He has an uncanny resemblance to Milanovich.

The owners of the Jays have no idea who Milanovich is.

[Will]

The owners of the Jays have no idea who Milanovich is.

What's your point?

[AngeloV]

The owners of the Jays have no idea who Milanovich is.

Sure they do. They know he's the coach of that team that pays them money in exchange for the worst possible scheduling dates available.

[T-Bone]

Look who threw out the ceremonial first pitch last night:

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="5" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAA pWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr +JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgM hCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YY XFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhL w7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zz gKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nY FnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://instagram.com/p/XqRaW7B3dW/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">As expected, a strike from @chadkackert on the opening pitch. Huge thanks to the @bluejays! Best of luck this season roomies! #Argos #lovethisteam</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Toronto Argonauts (@torontoargos) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2013-04-03T23:09:20+00:00">Apr 3, 2013 at 4:09pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>

[Will]

Look who threw out the ceremonial first pitch last night:

Pretty cool!

[294life]

Look who threw out the ceremonial first pitch last night:

Not sure if that won't curse the argos. at least he was wearing the right hat.

[Will]

Quite the home run derby yesterday. The Blue Jays hit 5 and the Indians hit 2 and I think all except one were second deck shots. Fortunately, the Jays prevailed 10-8.

[294life]

Nice win against the dead sox. See if they can win their first series today.

[ArgoRavi]

Nice win against the dead sox. See if they can win their first series today.

They lost 13-0 with their ace, Dickey, losing his second start.

[T-Bone]

They lost 13-0 with their ace, Dickey, losing his second start.
Yes they did. The Giants were 2-4 after their first 6 games last season. The Jays still have 156 games left to play.

[Will]

They lost 13-0 with their ace, Dickey, losing his second start.

I bet your relishing every entry into the loss column.

[ArgoRavi]

I bet your relishing every entry into the loss column.

I will enjoy it while I can. ;)

[294life]

It's not so much the loss but the actual beat down that's pleasant to see.

[Deerkeeper]

I will enjoy it while I can. ;)I admit that I am kind of enjoying it as well. Hope it continues. Interesting how my interest in the Jays have changed over the years. From avid fan to total indifference and now onto outright hatred.

[T-Bone]

Interesting how my interest in the Jays have changed over the years. From avid fan to total indifference and now onto outright hatred.Why? I'm honestly curious as to the reason.

[AngeloV]

I admit that I am kind of enjoying it as well. Hope it continues. Interesting how my interest in the Jays have changed over the years. From avid fan to total indifference and now onto outright hatred.

I have personally gone from dislike to indifferent. I played competitive baseball through high school as well as football. I stuck to football and couldn't really understand the love of baseball in this city. Now I totally understand, that Toronto is just a bandwagon city when it comes to sports, so I decided (if I may quote Phil Collins) I don't care anymore.

Go Argos, Go Leafs (in that order).
Don't care about any other pro sports teams.

[T-Bone]

Nice come back for the Jays yesterday (http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2013_04_10_tormlb_detmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=det).

[D-Gap-Willie]

I got a big chuckle out of the Blue Jays 11-1 loss in Detroit today - I have to feel a little sorry for the players, who have been sucked into the Rogers hype to sell tickets. I was a die-hard Blue Jays, starting at the snow covered CNE Stadium field in 1977, but recent events have turned me against them - it is so obvoius that Rogers has little interest in winning, and is only interested in selling tickets and in television ratings. The Rogers media agenda, manipulation, and hype have completely turned me off the Blue Jays after more than 30 years.

Now I get a good laugh when they are humiliated - next up - come on KC !


Why? I'm honestly curious as to the reason.

I don't know about Deerkeeper or others here, but Rogers make it almost impossible to be both an ardent Argo fan and a Blue Jays fan. You can't separate the Blue Jays from their ownership, and their media agenda - they force you into making a choice. I wonder how many Argo fans here still have strong feelings for the Blue Jays, and how many formerly were Blue Jay fans and are no longer ? A poll perhaps ?

[Ron]

I continue to like both the Jays and Argos because I am not manipulated by the media or ownership.

[T-Bone]

Rogers make it almost impossible to be both an ardent Argo fan and a Blue Jays fan. You can't separate the Blue Jays from their ownership, and their media agenda - they force you into making a choice.If Rogers were to purchase the Argos, you would cease to be an Argos fan then?

[294life]

If Rogers were to purchase the Argos

blasphemy! lol.

[argolio]

Rogers is not buying the Argos.

[D-Gap-Willie]

If Rogers were to purchase the Argos, you would cease to be an Argos fan then?

That's a rather trollish question , but I will answer it in any case. No, I would not cease to be an Argo fan - I did not cease to be a Blue Jays fan for many years of Rogers ownership. Although Rogers continual attempts to denigrate the Argos and to promote the NFL in Toronto, have bothered me greatly over the years, I did not dump the Jays; although Rogers continually mismanaged and underfunded the Blue Jays, I did not dump the Jays.
Only this year, with the sudden decison to spend have I lost faith in the Jays. They have built a team of very questionable quality at great expense, and promoted it as the 'second coming' - I simply can't buy all the over-the-top hype. You can't build a championship team with suspect pitching, and no legitimate major league second baseman - add to that that there is little back-up for inevitable injuries and the farm system is now substantially depleted.
I have been an Argo fan ( and a CFL fan) since I first came to Canada, and saw them play more than 50 years ago. Rogers will never buy the Argos, but even if they did, I can't picture not being an Argo fan.

[ArgoRavi]

Rogers is not buying the Argos.

And if they ever do, there will have been a huge attitude change towards the Argos/CFL on their part. I don't see that happening anytime soon though.

[Will]

I don't think the question is trollish. Many here are unable to distinguish between Rogers and the Blue Jays. What if the Argos became so indistinguishable from an owner you happened to dislike, would you withdraw your support from the team? For many here, it has nothing to do with Rogers, simply a dislike of baseball and a wish to see Toronto have only two sports team (Leafs and Argos) again.

But the Argos all of a sudden becoming the only summer sports team isn't all of a sudden going to bring back the 50k crowds like used to be at the Ex.

[T-Bone]

That's a rather trollish question , but I will answer it in any case. No, I would not cease to be an Argo fan - I did not cease to be a Blue Jays fan for many years of Rogers ownership. Although Rogers continual attempts to denigrate the Argos and to promote the NFL in Toronto, have bothered me greatly over the years, I did not dump the Jays; although Rogers continually mismanaged and underfunded the Blue Jays, I did not dump the Jays.
Only this year, with the sudden decison to spend have I lost faith in the Jays. They have built a team of very questionable quality at great expense, and promoted it as the 'second coming' - I simply can't buy all the over-the-top hype. You can't build a championship team with suspect pitching, and no legitimate major league second baseman - add to that that there is little back-up for inevitable injuries and the farm system is now substantially depleted.
I have been an Argo fan ( and a CFL fan) since I first came to Canada, and saw them play more than 50 years ago. Rogers will never buy the Argos, but even if they did, I can't picture not being an Argo fan.
It's not a trollish question, it's exactly the situation I found myself in as a Jays fan long before Rogers showed up and before I was an Argos fan. You claimed that you can't separate the Blue Jays from their ownership and that you are forced to choose but I disagree. I've seen owners come and go but the Jays remained. Who owns any of the sports teams I support is out of my control. Like you I'm not happy with the way Rogers has dealt with the Argos but I don't take out that frustration on the Jays. There are more than enough people in this city to support all the teams and they should be able to coexist.


For many here, it has nothing to do with Rogers, simply a dislike of baseball and a wish to see Toronto have only two sports team (Leafs and Argos) again.Exactly.

[294life]

But the Argos all of a sudden becoming the only summer sports team isn't all of a sudden going to bring back the 50k crowds like used to be at the Ex.

This is also quite true.

[Will]

Much better effort from Dickey tonight. He pitched 6 1/3 solid innings. The Jays only got two hits, but the difference was a two-run shot by Jose Bautista to lift the Jays 3-2 over Kansas City.

[D-Gap-Willie]

It's not a trollish question, it's exactly the situation I found myself in as a Jays fan long before Rogers showed up and before I was an Argos fan. You claimed that you can't separate the Blue Jays from their ownership and that you are forced to choose but I disagree. I've seen owners come and go but the Jays remained. Who owns any of the sports teams I support is out of my control. Like you I'm not happy with the way Rogers has dealt with the Argos but I don't take out that frustration on the Jays. There are more than enough people in this city to support all the teams and they should be able to coexist.

Exactly.

Firstly I must state that I am very much a baseball and a football fan, and played my full 4 years of eligibilty in both sports in college ( a long time ago). I do not hate or even dislike the Blue Jays - I merely have great difficulties with the behaviour of Rogers as owner. I do not personally believe that Rogers has any interest in the success of the Jays on the field, but is merely involved in a plan to significantly increase their ticket sales and ancillary income. I do not like bad ownership of any sports franchise; I am even more upset with ownership whose agenda has little to do with the success of their team on the field. For these reasons, I choose to, at this time, withdraw my support from the Blue Jays - my personal choice !

[Will]

If Rogers wanted to increase ticket sales for the Blue Jays they would be unable to do so by putting a bad product on the field. Certainly the hype around this team increases ticket sales, but if they don't live up to it on the field then it would only be a short-term increase.

[T-Bone]

I choose to, at this time, withdraw my support from the Blue Jays - my personal choice !That's fine, we are all free to make a choice. Earlier though you said Rogers forces you to choose between supporting the Blue Jays or the Argos. Force is not choice. I choose to support both teams. That is my personal choice, no better or worse than your choice.


Much better effort from Dickey tonight. He pitched 6 1/3 solid innings. The Jays only got two hits, but the difference was a two-run shot by Jose Bautista to lift the Jays 3-2 over Kansas City.Nice to see. Let's hope they can get the sweep today.

[Will]

Blue Jays are in a tough one tied 2-2 right now. Jays have hit the ball hard, but never where the Royals ain't.

[Ron]

I just hope the Argos never build a winner and promote the hell out of it so the city actually gets in a buzz for a CFL season. I fear we'd lose a fan if that ever happened.

Much better to not try too hard, keep ticket sales at low levels and never speak up to get the city excited about a sports team.

[matchuk]

I do not like bad ownership of any sports franchise; I am even more upset with ownership whose agenda has little to do with the success of their team on the field. For these reasons, I choose to, at this time, withdraw my support from the Blue Jays - my personal choice !

so, you obviously aren't a leaf fan then either? because mlse is the worst offender for caring strictly about their revenue and not the on ice product...

[294life]

Blue Jays are in a tough one tied 2-2 right now. Jays have hit the ball hard, but never where the Royals ain't.

ouch. blew it in the ninth. Royals off to a surprising first place start.

[D-Gap-Willie]

so, you obviously aren't a leaf fan then either? because mlse is the worst offender for caring strictly about their revenue and not the on ice product...

I am what you would describe as a casual Leaf fan, mainly so that I can have discussions with my son, who is a rabid Leaf fan. I have only ever attended one Leaf game and that was at MLG. I actually should get to know the game of hockey better - I truly do not fully understand all the nuances - perhaps if I had played the game, or even learned to skate, it would be different. However, you are right about MLSE's interest being primarily in revenue.


I just hope the Argos never build a winner and promote the hell out of it so the city actually gets in a buzz for a CFL season. I fear we'd lose a fan if that ever happened.

Much better to not try too hard, keep ticket sales at low levels and never speak up to get the city excited about a sports team.

At this point, the Argos have already built the only winning team in Toronto, although the Leafs are making good progress in that direction. The Argos have not really done anything to " promote the hell out of it " yet, so I presume that we are not about to "lose" you as "a fan".

[T-Bone]

The Argos have not really done anything to " promote the hell out of it " yet
Though I wonder how many Argos fans (outside of Ron) would be opposed to getting the same amount of promotion for the Argos that the Jays got this pre-season.


ouch. blew it in the ninth. Royals off to a surprising first place start.
It's unfortunate but 2 out of 3 is not bad and we are only 2.5 games behind first. It's still early.

[294life]

Though I wonder how many Argos fans (outside of Ron) would be opposed to getting the same amount of promotion for the Argos that the Jays got this pre-season.


It's unfortunate but 2 out of 3 is not bad and we are only 2.5 games behind first. It's still early.

Yeah so far the east is weak but as Billy Martin used to say : 'It's april, we'll come around'.

[Ron]

At this point, the Argos have already built the only winning team in Toronto, although the Leafs are making good progress in that direction. The Argos have not really done anything to " promote the hell out of it " yet, so I presume that we are not about to "lose" you as "a fan".

Only winning team of 2012. It's not like the city hasn't seen another championship recently.

[Will]

Lawrie activated off the DL, but Sergio Santos goes on the 15-day DL with a tricep injury.

Blue Jays win 4-3 over the White Sox.

[D-Gap-Willie]

Only winning team of 2012. It's not like the city hasn't seen another championship recently.

Sorry Ron, I must have missed something - my mistake -- what was the team and just when "recently"?

[mchesher03]

I support all Toronto teams to varying degrees (some more than others) but at the end of the day I'd never cheer for another city's team over ours. Doesn't make sense to me.

[T-Bone]

I support all Toronto teams to varying degrees (some more than others) but at the end of the day I'd never cheer for another city's team over ours. Doesn't make sense to me.I'm the same way. What makes even less sense to me is cheering for the failure of another team in your city. To each their own, I guess.


Lawrie activated off the DL, but Sergio Santos goes on the 15-day DL with a tricep injury.
That's good and bad.


Blue Jays win 4-3 over the White Sox.
It was a fun game to watch in person.

[Ron]

Sorry Ron, I must have missed something - my mistake -- what was the team and just when "recently"?

The Toronto Rock in 2011

[294life]

The Expos Nation ( yes you can all laugh) is organizing a trip to see the Jays and Rays july 20th in an effort to promote a return for baseball in montreal. almost 300 tix have been sold so it should make for a nice group. i'll be joining them.

[cossack]

I'm the same way. What makes even less sense to me is cheering for the failure of another team in your city. To each their own, I guess.

Agreed. So why is Rogers going out of their way to do that to the Argos?

[Ron]

Agreed. So why is Rogers going out of their way to do that to the Argos?

Urban myth. Show actual proof of them going out of their way.

[cossack]

Those Argo Grey Cup banners that used to hang off the ceiling of the Rogers Centre didn't come down by themselves. Somebody had to go out of their way to climb up there and take them all down.

[T-Bone]

Those Argo Grey Cup banners that used to hang off the ceiling of the Rogers Centre didn't come down by themselves. Somebody had to go out of their way to climb up there and take them all down.
Those banners are still up there, they are on a cable that can be pulled across like a curtain. When they put out the foul pole nets for baseball they pull the banners in at the same time. At the ACC the Toronto Rock banners are not visible when the Rock are not playing.

[Will]

Those banners are still up there, they are on a cable that can be pulled across like a curtain. When they put out the foul pole nets for baseball they pull the banners in at the same time. At the ACC the Toronto Rock banners are not visible when the Rock are not playing.

Doesn't make it right though, the fact that they aren't displayed.

The Jays split the four-game series with the White Sox winning 3-1 yesterday. R.A Dickey pitched superbly, but left with stiffness in his neck and back. The Jays seem to have little luck with injuries.

[T-Bone]

Doesn't make it right though, the fact that they aren't displayed.
Never said it was right or wrong. The point is Rogers is not the only facility owner that does it.


The Jays split the four-game series with the White Sox winning 3-1 yesterday. R.A Dickey pitched superbly, but left with stiffness in his neck and back. The Jays seem to have little luck with injuries.
I would love to see them sweep the Yankees this weekend.

[cossack]

Those banners are still up there, they are on a cable that can be pulled across like a curtain. When they put out the foul pole nets for baseball they pull the banners in at the same time. At the ACC the Toronto Rock banners are not visible when the Rock are not playing.

So now we know how it's done, just not why it's done.

[T-Bone]

So now we know how it's done, just not why it's done.
I assume it's because they want to promote the team they own, in the stadium that they own and not the team they don't own.

[Ron]

I assume it's because they want to promote the team they own, in the stadium that they own and not the team they don't own.

More and more sports teams across North America in similar situations started doing it when "branding" became such a big deal. Pure economics. (and not the kind sponsored by Reynolds)

[294life]

Tough loss today but at least it was a sellout. Don't see much of those anymore. Better luck against the hens tonight.

[T-Bone]

Another Loss… (http://blogs.thescore.com/djf/2013/04/23/another-loss/)

[294life]

looks like october will be free for football after all

[ArgoRavi]

The Jays are currently winning 6-5 in the 11th inning today. Can they hang on?

[T-Bone]

looks like october will be free for football after all
Did you read the article I posted?


The Jays are currently winning 6-5 in the 11th inning today. Can they hang on?
Looks like they did (http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=tor&gid=2013_04_24_tormlb_balmlb_1&lang=en).

[294life]

Did you read the article I posted?



hadn't until now. I guess when the F word is used it helps to reconsider. :o

[T-Bone]

hadn't until now. I guess when the F word is used it helps to reconsider. :o
Ultimately the point being made in the article is that it is still too early to determine where the Jays will end up.

[ArgoRavi]

While it is still early in the season, there is a pretty decent sample of games to go on so far and the Jays are now 9-17 with only Houston having a worse record in the American League. Furthermore, the Jays have lost six of seven to the Yankees over the last week and haven't shown much ability to compete with the big boys of the AL East yet. They are digging themselves a sizable hole early this season that may be challenging to dig themselves out of.

[294life]

Ultimately the point being made in the article is that it is still too early to determine where the Jays will end up.

yeah series sweep to the yankees cannot be an accurate indicator. :D

[mchesher03]

the hole may already be too deep at this point even with a huge run. just an awful squad right now

[1argoholic]

If the year continues the way it's going all one can say is crash and burn. Rogers folks didn't see this coming and fans will be off the hype bandwagon real fast. Karma does exist. Start treating The Argonauts better NOW Rogers and you still have hope to turn your season around.

The City Of Toronto should be very very thankful for the Argonauts. The Jays look like a mess and if the Leafs don't win tomorrow it'll be our in four or five tops.

A whole bunch of sad stuff really.

[AngeloV]

I went to my first game in 10 years last night. The game just dragged on and on. No excuse for a 3-1 game to last 3 1/2 hours. The best part for me was the fact that I was sitting 8 rows behind the Red Sox Dugout and gave John Farrell and standing ovation when the rest of the people in my section were booing him.

For the record, they announced the attendance at 25k+. No chance at all. 20-21 k is more likely and many of them had Red Sox gear on.

[ArgoRavi]

It looks like some of the early hype over the Jays rubbed more than just a few people on here the wrong way: http://blogs.thescore.com/djf/2013/05/02/farrells-treatment-a-travesty-and-smug-blue-jays-cant-lose-enough-says-cleveland-radio-broadcaster/

These Cleveland guys really seem to have an axe to grind.

[Ron]

If the year continues the way it's going all one can say is crash and burn. Rogers folks didn't see this coming and fans will be off the hype bandwagon real fast. Karma does exist. Start treating The Argonauts better NOW Rogers and you still have hope to turn your season around.

The City Of Toronto should be very very thankful for the Argonauts. The Jays look like a mess and if the Leafs don't win tomorrow it'll be our in four or five tops.

A whole bunch of sad stuff really.

Never thought I'd see you say that you wanted Rogers to buy the Argos.



My favourite preseason interview was with Dickie. (sp?)

Paraphrasing from memory

Reporter: "Is this Jays team was the best team on paper he ever played with."

Dickie: "No. One year in Texas we had a much better team on paper."

Reporter: "How'd that team do?"

Dickie: "We sucked."

[Will]

If the year continues the way it's going all one can say is crash and burn. Rogers folks didn't see this coming and fans will be off the hype bandwagon real fast. Karma does exist. Start treating The Argonauts better NOW Rogers and you still have hope to turn your season around.

The City Of Toronto should be very very thankful for the Argonauts. The Jays look like a mess and if the Leafs don't win tomorrow it'll be our in four or five tops.

A whole bunch of sad stuff really.

Leafs might lose in four or five and it'll still be considered a successful season IMO. I had no expectations for them when the season opened.

[LLB997]

what the hell, I was told in December that the jays were world series champs guaranteed.

[Will]

I went to my first game in 10 years last night. The game just dragged on and on. No excuse for a 3-1 game to last 3 1/2 hours. The best part for me was the fact that I was sitting 8 rows behind the Red Sox Dugout and gave John Farrell and standing ovation when the rest of the people in my section were booing him.

For the record, they announced the attendance at 25k+. No chance at all. 20-21 k is more likely and many of them had Red Sox gear on.

I bet you're really proud of yourself.



For people who claim to hate baseball some of you spend an awful lot of time in here.

The Jays season to date has been an epic clusterfuck. The difference is that you get some sort of sick, twisted enjoyment out of it happening.

[1argoholic]

I never said that I wanted Rogers to buy the Argonauts. I said if Rogers started treating them better that Karma might turn their way a bit. I DON'T want Rogers owning the Argos so they can send them into the crapper along with the Jays.

[jerrym]

For people who claim to hate baseball some of you spend an awful lot of time in here.

The Jays season to date has been an epic clusterArgodomeArgodomeArgodomeArgodome. The difference is that you get some sort of sick, twisted enjoyment out of it happening.

Another day. Another drubbing. This is the first time I've posted on the baseball site, but considering the combination of Roger's treatment of the Argos, which only seems to get worse with time, and its blowhardy swagger about the Jays during the offseason, I have enjoyed this comeuppance. Jays symbolize Rogers - overpriced and underperforming.

[Mulder]

Another day. Another drubbing. This is the first time I've posted on the baseball site, but considering the combination of Roger's treatment of the Argos, which only seems to get worse with time, and its blowhardy swagger about the Jays during the offseason, I have enjoyed this comeuppance. Jays symbolize Rogers - overpriced and underperforming.

Pretty much this.

I cheer for the bluejays. Would like to see them win as Canada's team. However, I am also not fooled by this attempt to put together a winner, so i've been quite pleased with the results. Partly because of the hype machine, Rogers is promoting a (IMO) lame hash tag. However it has caught on. That's why people hire a social media guy/gal now I guess. The other part is because I predicted these results, while people around me saying "the jays are good" (and media), I said "They raided the 5th worst team in MLB last year, and picked up a 38 year old pitcher who bounced around minor leagues that has one good season, just so happened it was last year"

11 games back. Will take them at least a month and a half to claw back, and if they haven't started coming back by the 26th of May. They will be a write off.

[ArgoRavi]

Pretty much this.

I cheer for the bluejays. Would like to see them win as Canada's team. However, I am also not fooled by this attempt to put together a winner, so i've been quite pleased with the results. Partly because of the hype machine, Rogers is promoting a (IMO) lame hash tag. However it has caught on. That's why people hire a social media guy/gal now I guess. The other part is because I predicted these results, while people around me saying "the jays are good" (and media), I said "They raided the 5th worst team in MLB last year, and picked up a 38 year old pitcher who bounced around minor leagues that has one good season, just so happened it was last year"

11 games back. Will take them at least a month and a half to claw back, and if they haven't started coming back by the 26th of May. They will be a write off.

Dave Perkins mentioned in the Star before this weekend's series that the Jays would have to play .606 ball the rest of the way just to get to 90 wins which is usually the magic number for a wild-card spot. After losing the first two games to Seattle, they would now have to play .615 ball to get to that 90 win level and Perkins went on to say that it will probably take more than 90 wins this year because the teams in Houston's division get to beat up on them 15 times this year. Only the '85 Jays have ever played at as high of a level as .615 so it doesn't look good for this season's Jays.

I would ask Jays fans what the expectations were out of Dickey and Buehrle this season? I assume that Dickey was expected to win 20 games again this year as he did last but last year really was an aberration for him. Buehrle has more or less been a .500 pitcher throughout his career so I am not sure why more was expected of him this year if indeed more was.

What will also be interesting to see is if Teflon Alex Anthopoulos finally starts to get any heat from the Toronto media. I have never seen a GM in the Toronto pro sports scene produce so little in results over a long-term and yet get very little, if any, criticism from the media. This has baffled me for the last two or three years. Will Anthopoulos finally start getting some heat soon, at least from the non-Rogers media?

[Will]

The 1989 Toronto Blue Jays were 12-24 when Jimy Williams got fired. The Jays were 77-49 the rest of the way (61%) and won the AL East, but Ravi is right 89 wins isn't going to win the AL East this season. In addition, I would also argue that the 1989 team was different because the core was much different because it had many of the same players from years' past and the only real change that was made was Jesse Barfield going to the Yankees and Mookie Wilson replaced him. This team is a whole different set of players.

FWIW, Steve Buffery has been quite critical of Jays management as a whole (at least last season). I can't point you to any other examples though.

[paulwoods13]

I would bet that at least 93 wins will be needed, possibly 95, to make the playoffs. Can these Jays even win 81? I seriously doubt it.

[294life]

Did you read the article I posted?


Does it still apply?

[AngeloV]

I bet you're really proud of yourself.

What the hell is your problem? Wow, it appears as though you and some others really want me to leave this forum. My issues with T-Bone are long gone, yet you and someone else just want to keep this crap going and attack anything I post. All I stated was that I went to the game. Yes I gave Farrell an ovation. Nothing malicious about it, and I wasn't attacking another poster. I was having fun, and the people sitting around me got a kick out of it and had fun with me.


Mulder himself said he's been happy with the results this year. Why are you not attacking him?

I personally banned myself from this forum for almost a month due to the fact that my posts were getting removed, despite the fact that at least 2 of the 4 mods on here agreed that my posts shouldn't have been removed (and 1 didn't respond to me). If you have a problem with me, why don't you follow the advice that you've given to others and just put me on you ignore list.


Another day. Another drubbing. This is the first time I've posted on the baseball site, but considering the combination of Roger's treatment of the Argos, which only seems to get worse with time, and its blowhardy swagger about the Jays during the offseason, I have enjoyed this comeuppance. Jays symbolize Rogers - overpriced and underperforming.

Richard Griffen of the Star predicted the Jays to win 108 games this year. And he's their baseball expert.

[Will]

I don't think any MLB team has won 108 since the Yankees won 114 in 1998. The most common prediction I saw was somewhere between 90-95. It is pretty clear that barring a minor miracle they will not achieve this mark. Again, if we are to use prior Blue Jays history as a precedent (in terms of mid-season turnarounds) the best we could hope for is 89 wins, which probably wouldn't be enough in the 2013 AL East even though it was enough in 1989.

[T-Bone]

My issues with T-Bone are long gone
I'm glad to read this. I just want you to know that the following response is not personal. I'm just trying to clarify things.


Wow, it appears as though you and some others really want me to leave this forum.
I'm sorry you feel that way. Speaking for myself, even though we don't always see eye to eye I don't want to see you or anyone else here leave.


All I stated was that I went to the game. Yes I gave Farrell an ovation. Nothing malicious about it, and I wasn't attacking another poster. I was having fun, and the people sitting around me got a kick out of it and had fun with me.
Have you not stated in the past that you don't like the sport of baseball? Has that changed? Are you a Red Sox fan now? If not I can see how baseball fans could see that as trying to stir the pot. Many here have stated they are not baseball fans yet they take the time to come in to this thread and bash the Jays. I didn't create this thread for that purpose.


Mulder himself said he's been happy with the results this year. Why are you not attacking him?
I don't agree with Mulder's position. He appears to be happier about the Jays failure as it is a good blow to Rogers. I've said it before, I feel you can separate your love of a team from their ownership. I was a fan of the Jays long before Rogers showed up. Everyone here knows, however unlikely that if Rogers bought the Argos they would not stop supporting the team. I wonder how many of the Rogers haters here still use Rogers products? If you fall in that boat, I highly recommend you switch services otherwise your position is hypocrisy.


If you have a problem with me, why don't you follow the advice that you've given to others and just put me on you ignore list.
Why don't the self proclaimed non-baseball fans do the same with this thread? They claim they don't care yet they care enough to hate on something they don't care about. I honestly don't understand why there is so much hating here on topics people claim they don't care about. There is an Argonauts Thread on the TFC forum that I frequent where I post the games just like I do in the TFC thread here. Over there though there is no negative response to that thread unlike what the TFC thread or this thread gets here. People there that don't care ignore it others were congratulating me on the Argos Grey Cup win.


Does it still apply?
If the Jays stay on their current pace they will be done at the end of the month.

[Mulder]

Mulder himself said he's been happy with the results this year. Why are you not attacking him?

I'm happy with the results because I predicted it. Not because I hate the Jays. Which is different than self-professed Rogers/Jays haters posting they are happy about it or making "jokes"


I personally banned myself from this forum for almost a month due to the fact that my posts were getting removed, despite the fact that at least 2 of the 4 mods on here agreed that my posts shouldn't have been removed (and 1 didn't respond to me). If you have a problem with me, why don't you follow the advice that you've given to others and just put me on you ignore list.

Correction, it was a single post by you. For which you never gave me a reason why it should have remained when I asked politely.

In regards to this issue, Instead of clicking the report button, or PMing a mod about a post you don't like or felt was an attack. You went on the offensive back. Says a lot, especially when other people use the report button and know how to send PM's.

Lastly any response after this that is not Blue Jay team related, Will be removed. Please take it to PM.

[argonaut11xx]

As a Detroit Tigers fan...im loving what the Jays are doing this season...hehe

I have question,comment...wonder if anyone can explain this very odd phemonenon.

People out here in BC literally hate everything Toronto...with one exception...The Blue Jays, why?

[T-Bone]

As a Detroit Tigers fan...im loving what the Jays are doing this season...hehe
See this is different because you are obviously a fan of baseball but you support a different team and that's fine. What I take issue with are those people who state they are not baseball fans and then hate on the Jays/baseball. Many of them have also stated they want to see the Jays move away and would be happy if all Toronto teams left town minus the Argos.


I have question,comment...wonder if anyone can explain this very odd phemonenon.

People out here in BC literally hate everything Toronto...with one exception...The Blue Jays, why?
I think it has something to do with the way they have branded themselves Canada's team. They are the only Canadian baseball team in the MLB now.

[AngeloV]

Have you not stated in the past that you don't like the sport of baseball? Has that changed? Are you a Red Sox fan now? If not I can see how baseball fans could see that as trying to stir the pot. Many here have stated they are not baseball fans yet they take the time to come in to this thread and bash the Jays. I didn't create this thread for that purpose.

I may be wrong becasue I say a lot of things, but I don't think I've ever said that I don't like baseball. I played rep and high school ball until I was 19 in North York, but chose to play Junior Football when the sports overlapped after high school and I could no longer play both.

I don't know how a lot of other people feel, but for me the reason I stopped cheering the Blue Jays and never cheered the Raptors, is because after the Jays first taste of success in '85, the Argos never had the same support. Jays fans on here can get mad that many some Argos fans want the Jays to die and leave the city (it'll never happen so why get mad over that?), but the fact of the matter is that a majority of Jays and Raptors fans are all about the "major league" hype and want the Argos to die and go away so that Toronto can get a "major league" football team too. So I believe it is more about spite for those people, rather than the actual teams--at least it is for me.

Hope that cleared up my stance.

[argonaut11xx]

I think it has something to do with the way they have branded themselves Canada's team. They are the only Canadian baseball team in the MLB now.

I get that...but the absolute hatered to anything Toronto...i'd have thought the BC folks would all be Mariners fans...yet there is always a Jay's hat, t-shirt...its strange. (almost hypocritical)

[T-Bone]

I may be wrong becasue I say a lot of things, but I don't think I've ever said that I don't like baseball. I played rep and high school ball until I was 19 in North York, but chose to play Junior Football when the sports overlapped after high school and I could no longer play both.

I don't know how a lot of other people feel, but for me the reason I stopped cheering the Blue Jays and never cheered the Raptors, is because after the Jays first taste of success in '85, the Argos never had the same support. Jays fans on here can get mad that many some Argos fans want the Jays to die and leave the city (it'll never happen so why get mad over that?), but the fact of the matter is that a majority of Jays and Raptors fans are all about the "major league" hype and want the Argos to die and go away so that Toronto can get a "major league" football team too. So I believe it is more about spite for those people, rather than the actual teams--at least it is for me.

Hope that cleared up my stance.
Thank you for clarifying your position. I don't agree with anyone that wants any team to leave the city as I personally feel it's one of the great things about Toronto that we have the variety of sports we do. Ultimately those people are entitled to their opinions by why post them here in a thread that was made as a place to discus the Jays not bash them. We all know what would happen here if an Argos hater started posting they want to see the Argos move away.


I get that...but the absolute hatered to anything Toronto...i'd have thought the BC folks would all be Mariners fans...yet there is always a Jay's hat, t-shirt...its strange. (almost hypocritical)
Like I've said before the human race is not always logical.

[Ron]

I don't know how a lot of other people feel, but for me the reason I stopped cheering the Blue Jays and never cheered the Raptors, is because after the Jays first taste of success in '85, the Argos never had the same support. Jays fans on here can get mad that many some Argos fans want the Jays to die and leave the city (it'll never happen so why get mad over that?), but the fact of the matter is that a majority of Jays and Raptors fans are all about the "major league" hype and want the Argos to die and go away so that Toronto can get a "major league" football team too. So I believe it is more about spite for those people, rather than the actual teams--at least it is for me.

Hope that cleared up my stance.

So if I have this correct.

You stopped cheering for the Jays because of nitwits and morons that have nothing to do with the team or the sport. But you continue to cheer for the Argos in spite of all the nitwits and morons that have nothing to do with the team or the sport?

[AngeloV]

So if I have this correct.

You stopped cheering for the Jays because of nitwits and morons that have nothing to do with the team or the sport. But you continue to cheer for the Argos in spite of all the nitwits and morons that have nothing to do with the team or the sport?

Just to make you happy Ron, yes.


We all know what would happen here if an Argos hater started posting they want to see the Argos move away.


It wouldn't surprise me if Argo hater has posted this on another forum..pehaps a Paul Godrey run "we're a world class city" forum.

[Ron]

I get that...but the absolute hatered to anything Toronto...i'd have thought the BC folks would all be Mariners fans...yet there is always a Jay's hat, t-shirt...its strange. (almost hypocritical)

When the Jays started they were very inclusive to the rest of the country. They made an effort from day one to draw real (non Expo) fans from everywhere. It also didn't hurt that Vancouver for a time was thinking they could get a MLB team for themselves.

As for the hatred part. Think of it this way.

You (Vancouver) live beside a neighbour that is richer and more connected than you in almost every way for decades (That would be Toronto). You have deep envy for your neighbour that eventually turns to hatred. But you also like hot women. So one day your neighbour gets married to a super hottie and all she likes to do is sunbath in her yard. She's also very friendly and is nice to you whenever she sees you. (even brings you a glass of her lemonade as you are bird watching in your yard) So naturally it is totally cool if you really like and admire her (be a fan) ... but you still reserve the right to hate her husband and all he stands for.

[argonaut11xx]

When the Jays started they were very inclusive to the rest of the country. They made an effort from day one to draw real (non Expo) fans from everywhere. It also didn't hurt that Vancouver for a time was thinking they could get a MLB team for themselves.

As for the hatred part. Think of it this way.

You (Vancouver) live beside a neighbour that is richer and more connected than you in almost every way for decades (That would be Toronto). You have deep envy for your neighbour that eventually turns to hatred. But you also like hot women. So one day your neighbour gets married to a super hottie and all she likes to do is sunbath in her yard. She's also very friendly and is nice to you whenever she sees you. (even brings you a glass of her lemonade as you are bird watching in your yard) So naturally it is totally cool if you really like and admire her (be a fan) ... but you still reserve the right to hate her husband and all he stands for.

Ron,i like the way you explain things !!!!

after living out here for almost a year, i've come to the conclusion that Vancouver is Toronto's retarded cousin.

[T-Bone]

It wouldn't surprise me if Argo hater has posted this on another forum..pehaps a Paul Godrey run "we're a world class city" forum.
Still doesn't make it right.

[AngeloV]

Still doesn't make it right.

You're probably right, but I just wanted to explain why I think the way I do. Call it my way of being patriotic. LOL!!

[D-Gap-Willie]

Very scary incident in Tampa Bay tonite. JA Happ was hit in the head by a line drive in the second inning -- taken off on a stretcher bleeding from the left ear, but conscious. Thoughts and prayers for him, whether you are a Blue Jays fan or otherwise . Oh yes, the Jays won 6-4 in a comeback, but it really doesn't seem to matter much - I'd rather hear that Happ is OK

[Will]

That is pretty scary. Hope he is all right.

[argonaut11xx]

The sound that it made when it "PINGED" off that guys head was scary...figured he was toast....wow

now to some GOOD news

TIGERS TAKE OVER TOP SPOT IN MLB POWER RANKINGS

[T-Bone]

Happ released from hospital after liner to head (http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130508&content_id=46954168&vkey=news_tor&c_id=tor)

[Will]

Great news. In that situation you don't really care how long he'll be out for, you just care that he's all right.

The Jays have won three games in a row. Whether that means anything in the long-run remains to be seen.

[ArgoRavi]

At what point does Anthopoulos pull the trigger on John Gibbons?

[Argo57]

At what point does Anthopoulos pull the trigger on John Gibbons?

My guess is Anthopoulos will ride put the season with Gibbons as the Jays are basically done already.
Is it just me or does Gibbons look like he in a coma half the time???
I must admit I liked the moves going into the season, with some inherent risks including the possibility of being stuck with an aging ineffective pitching staff, and a lack of "team chemistry". The big question if the season continues and finishes the same is where do they go from here, do you stick with the same lineup going into next year or do you cut this "rebuild" short sell off your assets and go young again??

[Will]

The Blue Jays don't seem to be going away as quickly as some on here would hope. Still a tough climb though.

[294life]

Holy frijole. That's 8 in a row and only one game out of .500 in mid-June. They're pretty much back in the pack.

We'll be at least 400 expos fans attending July 20. Hopefully they'll remain in the thick of it by then.

[Mulder]

The Blue Jays don't seem to be going away as quickly as some on here would hope. Still a tough climb though.


Holy frijole. That's 8 in a row and only one game out of .500 in mid-June. They're pretty much back in the pack.

We'll be at least 400 expos fans attending July 20. Hopefully they'll remain in the thick of it by then.

Yeah well I predicted it would take them at least 2 months to get out of this mess. During this 8 game win streak against teams not in their division, they've went from ~10 games back to 7.5. Have to see where they are at the all star break.

[ArgoRavi]

I can't deny the Jays some credit here. Not only have they been winning but just about every game has been one-sided. Their pitching has been superb and their hitters have been hot. Can they keep this up? Baltimore will be a good test for them this weekend.

[Will]

The Blue Jays have now won ten in a row with a 4-2 win over the Orioles. There are a few reasons for this run: i) Adam Lind's hitting; ii) Mark Buehrle has been very effective; iii) the new pitcher Wang has been good in 2/3 starts and iv) the bullpen has been very good.

[matchuk]

The Blue Jays have now won ten in a row with a 4-2 win over the Orioles. There are a few reasons for this run: i) Adam Lind's hitting; ii) Mark Buehrle has been very effective; iii) the new pitcher Wang has been good in 2/3 starts and iv) the bullpen has been very good.

and with reyes close to a return with the jays, i can only see them looking better...

[294life]

we are now up to 700 expos fans heading to Rogers for this saturday's game. Rays holding the wild card spot. too bad the Jays look out of it. Hard to tell who every one will be pulling for.

[294life]

Easiest drive to TO I've made. Sitting in section 138.

Talk about an Argo free stadium. Yeeesh

[Will]

The Blue Jays seem to be similar to the early 2000 New York Rangers in that they can't seem to get the chemistry together to form a cohesive unit.

[ArgoRavi]

The Blue Jays seem to be similar to the early 2000 New York Rangers in that they can't seem to get the chemistry together to form a cohesive unit.

How many series have they won against divisional opponents this year? They swept Baltimore when they were in the midst of their 11 game winning streak but have they won another series against a divisional opponent otherwise? What do they do at the trade deadline? Do they become sellers?

[294life]

Hell of a crowd of 42,639 to see a king sized turkey of a loss. Bases loaded in the 8th with no outs and NO RUNS ??? LoL.

Took an hour to get out of the city but got to visit along Spadina and Eglinton instead of Gardiner and Dom Valley.

[294life]

oh man. blowing an 8-3 lead in the seventh. all that after a team only meeting. heads are gonna roll.

[1argoholic]

Jays are like Ted Rogers, DEAD.

[294life]

there is no question the support is there in contrast to say tampa bay. seems like just a matter of time before they get it together. maybe by the time the argos move into their brand new stadium....maybe.

[1argoholic]

You can't buy a winner and this year has been a serious FLOP.

[Ron]

You can't buy a winner and this year has been a serious FLOP.

Buying a winner refers to a team going out and spending huge in free agency. The Jays did not do that. The Jays made trades.

But even with the FLOP as you put it. They still put more butts in the seats than the Argos do. So Argo fans have no moral pedestal to throw down ha ha's from.

[1argoholic]

The Jays have a huge Dork fanbase in TO to Draw from and obviously the dorks are showing up to watch crap. When the camera pans a Jay game crowd it looks like a scene from The Big Bang Theory. Tilly hat sales go way up when the lid is open.

[Will]

Say what you will about Les Jays de Bleu, the fanbase that they seem to have attracted (young) is part of the fanbase that the Argos need. Don't deny it, I've seen people complain about the age of Argo fans.

[Ballstothewall]

Buying a winner refers to a team going out and spending huge in free agency. The Jays did not do that. The Jays made trades.

But even with the FLOP as you put it. They still put more butts in the seats than the Argos do. So Argo fans have no moral pedestal to throw down ha ha's from.

yeah, thats great and the Jays will still lose 30 million this year

Pro sports also appeared on Rogers’s radar, despite the fact that Rogers himself wasn’t a sports fan. He bought the Toronto Blue Jays in 2000 and later the SkyDome stadium where they played, renaming it the Rogers Centre. Again, it was despite the better judgment of some board members and close advisers. Though the team continued to be a massive money-loser—roughly $300 million in losses by 2008—he would later explain it was about more than the bottom line. “Don’t get me wrong: $300 million is a lot of money,” Rogers stated. “But I take a broader view. We would have paid the same money just for the equivalent branding opportunity.” From his Interview with MaCleans

[1argoholic]

Baseball lost me years ago. Too many drugged up fools and fat guys.

[294life]

Say what you will about Les Jays de Bleu, the fanbase that they seem to have attracted (young) is part of the fanbase that the Argos need. Don't deny it, I've seen people complain about the age of Argo fans.

ok clearly you are practicing for your trip next thursday. It's actually 'Geais Bleu'.

and yeah when i went to the argos' home opener I thought they were filming a Cocoon remake. ;)

[ArgoGabe22]

Say what you will about Les Jays de Bleu, the fanbase that they seem to have attracted (young) is part of the fanbase that the Argos need. Don't deny it, I've seen people complain about the age of Argo fans.

Maybe going back to the boat logo will bring in the same crop of fans the Jays got after going back to the classic Blue&White Jays.

[argolio]

the Jays will still lose 30 million this yearUnless maybe you add a zero to that, Rogers obviously doesn't care.

[Mulder]

Pro sports also appeared on Rogers’s radar, despite the fact that Rogers himself wasn’t a sports fan. He bought the Toronto Blue Jays in 2000 and later the SkyDome stadium where they played, renaming it the Rogers Centre. Again, it was despite the better judgment of some board members and close advisers. Though the team continued to be a massive money-loser—roughly $300 million in losses by 2008—he would later explain it was about more than the bottom line. “Don’t get me wrong: $300 million is a lot of money,” Rogers stated. “But I take a broader view. We would have paid the same money just for the equivalent branding opportunity.” From his Interview with MaCleans

Regardless of what Macleans or anyone thinks. Ted Rogers was a Blue Jays fan. My wife used to work for TheFan590 and bumped into him on multiple occasions either in the office or at the Dome and chatted baseball.

[Ballstothewall]

Regardless of what Macleans or anyone thinks. Ted Rogers was a Blue Jays fan. My wife used to work for TheFan590 and bumped into him on multiple occasions either in the office or at the Dome and chatted baseball.
He said it himself in the interview. That he was not a sports fan.He owned the team, of course he would say he is a Jays fan to people he met.Talk to John Tory. He will tell you what can of sports fan Ted really was behind close doors.

[Mulder]

He said it himself in the interview. That he was not a sports fan.He owned the team, of course he would say he is a Jays fan to people he met.Talk to John Tory. He will tell you what can of sports fan Ted really was behind close doors.

Thanks. Buts I will take the word of my wife who worked for the man and had personal conversations with him over anything published an interview.

[ArgoRavi]

So, will the Jays hit 75 wins this year? What changes will they make after this season? Will the fans come back next year after an extremely disappointing 2013 season?

[Ron]

So, will the Jays hit 75 wins this year? What changes will they make after this season? Will the fans come back next year after an extremely disappointing 2013 season?

Well ... nobody knew what the GM was going to do last off season and we don't know what he'll do this off season. History has shown he's not one to sit around and do nothing. I expect some off season trades again.

As for the fans next season ... again we'll see. There's a lot of fans still showing up and that's for a crap team this year. And most of these are not people who bought tix in March.

[jerrym]

One of the major problems the Jays face in the future is that most of its better players are 30 or older. The following Blue Jays will be 30 or older before the start of the next season: Buerhle 35, Dickey 39, Janssen 32, Johnson 30, Reyes and Delabar almost 31, Bautista 33, Encarnacion 31, and Lind 30. While it is certainly possible for a player over 30 to have good seasons, it is highly unlikely that a team with many of its best players 30+ is going to improve significantly.
In other words, the chances that the Jays will make the playoffs or even have winning seasons is very likely to decline next year and become much more remote with each successive season without a major rebuilding job, which takes time. The gamble of picking up Buerhle, Dickey, Johnson, and Reyes, as well as Cabrera (who turns 30 later in the season) in order to achieve short-term success, has been a failure and is even more unlikely to work out with each successive season. One only has to look at what happened to the Phillies, who won five successive National League East titles from 2007 to 2011, before declining over the last two years to fourth and a losing season in its division this year to see what happens to aging teams. It couldn't have happened to a nicer owner.

[gilthethrill]

ok clearly you are practicing for your trip next thursday. It's actually 'Geais Bleu'.

and yeah when i went to the argos' home opener I thought they were filming a Cocoon remake. ;)


I was at the Argos home opener too...not to fond of the "Cocoon Remake" comment...I will run over your toes with my walker if I hear that again from you sonny....:)

[294life]

I was at the Argos home opener too...not to fond of the "Cocoon Remake" comment...I will run over your toes with my walker if I hear that again from you sonny....:)


if you host a playoff game in november i'll make sure to bring plenty of Geritol to pass around. :D


but back to the Jays. I know it's frustrating for Toronto but you might have to give this team a couple of years to find some chemistry. The horses seem to be there they just need to pull in the right direction.

[ArgoRavi]

if you host a playoff game in november i'll make sure to bring plenty of Geritol to pass around. :D


but back to the Jays. I know it's frustrating for Toronto but you might have to give this team a couple of years to find some chemistry. The horses seem to be there they just need to pull in the right direction.

In a couple of years, an already old team will be two years older. This team seems to be an awfully long way from contending status.

[gilthethrill]

Oh, no doubt there will be a playoff game at RC this fall!!!!!

[jerrym]

As I noted previously, the following Blue Jays will be 30 or older before the start of the next season: Buerhle, Dickey, Janssen, Johnson, Reyes, Delabar, Bautista, Encarnacion, Lind and Cabrera will be 30 later in the season. Therefore, as a group they are not likely to show much improvement during the rest of their careers, although an individual player could have a spike in production in the next year or two. In addition, they represent most of the best players on the team and, with the exception of Janssen, all were drafted and developed by other teams. The following players on the 40 man roster were developed by the Blue Jays: Cecil, Drabek, Loup, Romero, Arenciba, Goins, Lawrie, Lind, Pillar and Sierra. Of the Toronto-developed players, only Janssen can be considered a first rank pitcher, and only Arenciba, Lawrie and Lind are regular position players, while none of these three can be considered a first rank regular at his position.
What this screams is that the Blue Jays farm system is weak and no amount of clever trades and free agents is going to rescue this team in the short-run because all of the best teams, even the very wealthy ones, develop a fair number of their best players. This aging team, in other words, is going to be mediocre for a while.

[D-Gap-Willie]

The concensus ( average of reputable sources) ranking of the Blue Jays farm system sets the quality of the Jays system somewhere between 23rd and 25th out of the 30 teams in Major League Baseball. This compares with a ranking in the 9 to 12 range before Anthopoulos traded off so much talent last year. What does this say ? -- the Blue Jays have a woeful farm system, and it was never very good. For all practical purposes, there is little hope on the farm, other than the occasional utility player.
Note to jerrym: Kyle Drabek was drafted and developed by the Phillies, and Brett Lawrie by the Brewers.

[1argoholic]

As I mentioned on page 3, "Different names brought in to see the same results". Actually I was wrong the results seem worse. Great jobs Rogers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess Toronto really does love the losers with all the suckers running around in Jays gear. You've got something to be proud of Rogers.

[jerrym]

As I noted previously, the following Blue Jays will be 30 or older before the start of the next season: Buerhle, Dickey, Janssen, Johnson, Reyes, Delabar, Bautista, Encarnacion, Lind and Cabrera will be 30 later in the season. Therefore, as a group they are not likely to show much improvement during the rest of their careers, although an individual player could have a spike in production in the next year or two. In addition, they represent most of the best players on the team and, with the exception of Janssen, all were drafted and developed by other teams. The following players on the 40 man roster were developed by the Blue Jays: Cecil, Drabek, Loup, Romero, Arenciba, Goins, Lawrie, Lind, Pillar and Sierra. Of the Toronto-developed players, only Janssen can be considered a first rank pitcher, and only Arenciba, Lawrie and Lind are regular position players, while none of these three can be considered a first rank regular at his position.
What this screams is that the Blue Jays farm system is weak and no amount of clever trades and free agents is going to rescue this team in the short-run because all of the best teams, even the very wealthy ones, develop a fair number of their best players. This aging team, in other words, is going to be mediocre for a while.



Note to jerrym: Kyle Drabek was drafted and developed by the Phillies, and Brett Lawrie by the Brewers.

Your comment about Drabek and Lawrie is correct. However, I decided to look at the Blue Jays in as kindly a spirit as possible.
In the first group of players that I mentioned (the 30+) I used the words "drafted and developed". For the second group I only used the word "developed" and decided to be as generous as possible in the use of the definition in order to give the woeful Jays a break. If a player spent roughly a half season or more in the Jays farm system before coming up to the MLB team, I decided to allow that the Jays some part in their development. You are right that Drabek and Lawrie were drafted and began their developments with other teams. However, after Lawrie was traded to the Jays by Milwaukee, he spent some time with Las Vegas and Dunedin. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brett_Lawrie) Drabek spent most of the 2010 season with the Jays New Hampshire affiliate after being acquired from Philadelphia. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyle_Drabek)

Thus, even with the generous application of the word "developed" the Jays have done a poor job of developing players over most of the last decade. With the definition of "drafted and developed", their record is truly dismal.

[D-Gap-Willie]

" the Jays have done a poor job of developing players over most of the last decade. With the definition of "drafted and developed", their record is truly dismal"

I very much agree with you about "dismal", but I feel that this has been going on for much longer than "most of the last decade" Something is very wrong with their evaluation of draftable talent and/or their development of that talent.

[294life]

I can't post the link right now but it would seem the Jays and Mets will be playing a couple of late pre-season games at the big O in 2014.

Red Sox-Yankees would have drawn more folk but beggars can't be choosers i guess.


Oh, no doubt there will be a playoff game at RC this fall!!!!!

There might even be 2. I dunno if the league would want Hamilton to play their home playoff game at Guelph in front of only 13,000 people.

[argonaut11xx]

being a Tigers fan...im glad the BLOW JAYS suck....

actually, i was a "kinda fan"(of toronto baseball) when the blow jays picked up Jack Morris...and it was cool that without him they may not have won a W/S.

anyways....Mark Fydrich (sp) was the best EVER player, i have ever watched live, or on TV....ever to pitch in MLB....

the LEAGUE forced the Tigers to switch around the pitching order for ratings on tv, and attendance in other teams parks

...this guy was the best ever,when he was in his prime

...sadly arm surgery was the worst ever...in this time frame

the BIRD....was the best....

Go Tigers Go.....

George Anderson....to Jimmy Leyland...best managers also

Final shot at the "blow jays"..they have never ever had a combo like "Tramell to Whitaker"...

[294life]

It's confirmed. Blue Jays at the big O March 28-29 2014 against the Mets. Tickets go on sale at evenko.ca this saturday at 10 AM. price ranges from 18-83 dollars.

[1argoholic]

Keep them there.

[T-Bone]

Keep them there.
Funny, I said the same thing when you said you're moving.

[argolio]

Mark Fydrich (sp) was the best EVER player, i have ever watched live, or on TV....ever to pitch in MLB....

the LEAGUE forced the Tigers to switch around the pitching order for ratings on tv, and attendance in other teams parks

...this guy was the best ever,when he was in his prime

...sadly arm surgery was the worst ever...in this time frame

the BIRD....was the best....Hard to believe a guy with a career 29-19 record who only played one full year was the best pitcher you ever saw, unless 1976 was the only year you followed baseball.

And that story of the league forcing the Tigers to change their rotation sounds like total b.s.

[294life]

Keep them there.

now that's just plain mean. ;)

[ArgoRavi]

With the Jays' loss to the Yankees on Wednesday night, they have been officially eliminated from wild card contention with 11 games still to play. They are also assured of a sub .500 season.

[Ron]

Hard to believe a guy with a career 29-19 record who only played one full year was the best pitcher you ever saw, unless 1976 was the only year you followed baseball.

And that story of the league forcing the Tigers to change their rotation sounds like total b.s.

1. Wasn't even the best in 76.

2. Absolutely 100% male bull droppings on the switching.

The Bird was something. But he was no Mad Hungarian.

[jerrym]

Blue Jays fans can look forward to another preseason set of predictions of first place finishes by the Blue Jays from the entire Rogers crew.

[AngeloV]

Blue Jays fans can look forward to another preseason set of predictions of first place finishes by the Blue Jays from the entire Rogers crew.

You mean like the 108 win prediction Richard Griffen of the star made going into this year? How does someone that far off keep his job as a baseball writer?

[jerrym]

You mean like the 108 win prediction Richard Griffen of the star made going into this year? How does someone that far off keep his job as a baseball writer?

Exactly. You can probably toss in the entire mainstream Toronto sports media in its slavish devotion to what they think is "major league" anything.

[Ron]

Exactly. You can probably toss in the entire mainstream Toronto sports media in its slavish devotion to what they think is "major league" anything.

Many baseball writers across North America had the Jays winning the division. Many also had Boston in the basement.

That's why they play the games I suppose.

[jerrym]

In an unsurprising move, the Blue Jays have refused to make a $14 million 2014 qualifying offer to Josh Johnson, who finished 2-8 with a 6.20 ERA, after being obtained from the Miami Marlins. This was another trade gone bad for the Jays, as Johnson earned $13.75 million this year.

http://sports.nationalpost.com/2013/11/04/toronto-blue-jays-refuse-to-make-qualifying-offer-to-josh-johnson/

[D-Gap-Willie]

There was no point in making a $14 M qualifying offer to Johnson. It was obvious to most observers that Johnson had completely lost his pitching mechanics while trying to recover from shoulder inflammation ( and subsequent problems) early in the 2011 season. He had moments when he looked OK, but it was obvious that he was still battling injury problems. Can he rebound ? I doubt it. Almost 3 years of battling through arm issues will make a permanent mess of pitching mechanics. He got more than $35 million for only 13 wins in the last 3 seasons. Now his agent wants another $10 M for next season. A minor league contract would be more realistic.
I don't see the trade as having "gone bad for the Jays". They still got Reyes and Buerhle, and gave up very little in return.

[Will]

Watch Johnson turn into a Cy Young award winner.

[D-Gap-Willie]

Watch Johnson turn into a Cy Young award winner.
Before or after Ricky Romero wins it ?

[ArgoRavi]

So with the first spring training game today, what are the expectations for this Jays team which is not much different than last year's?

[Will]

There is still potential offensively despite significant holes at C and 2B. The starting rotation is, once again, the weakest part of the ball club and no steps were taken in the off-season to improve it. This is certainly not a playoff team, but if a few things go right they may return back to an 80-85 win ball club.

[294life]

Way to rock the big O tonight with a 5-4 win in front of 46.121 folk. Expecting over 50,000 tomorrow.

[ArgoRavi]

Way to rock the big O tonight with a 5-4 win in front of 46.121 folk. Expecting over 50,000 tomorrow.

I was surprised that so many Montreal folk were cheering for the Blue Jays. I thought that Montrealers hated Toronto sports teams.

[Argo57]

Attended last nights 6-4 loss to Houston approx 15k attendance, no atmosphere at all in the building, long gone are the Jays glory days.

[Will]

The Jays are playing half-decent baseball right now. Still very early though.

[bluto]

Jays just won their 8th in a row and 13th out of 15 and sit in first and did this in front of 15,993 fans

[294life]

I bought a ticket for the season finale. Hopefully they can either finally win the division or a playoff spot. Four months to go

[T-Bone]

Jays just won their 8th in a row and 13th out of 15 and sit in first and did this in front of 15,993 fans
Looks like their TV ratings are on the up though (https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/eh-game/great-canadian-ratings-report-audiences-heat-along-blue-181535982.html).

[ArgoRavi]

Looks like their TV ratings are on the up though (https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/eh-game/great-canadian-ratings-report-audiences-heat-along-blue-181535982.html).

When the Jays are winning, their ratings are great; when they are not, they take a bit of a nosedive.

[T-Bone]

When the Jays are winning, their ratings are great; when they are not, they take a bit of a nosedive.
I speculate that is true for many sports teams.

[294life]

Might as well drive to TO Sunday and get me a Jose Reyes bobblehead. It's his birthday 3 days later.

[294life]

Well in spite of the jays' struggles I can't exactly miss Derek Jeter's last ever game in Canada Sunday. As for the cats Monday I can always go see the marauders instead so I'm keeping my hotel room.

[ArgoRavi]

It's a multi purpose stadium, that's all you need to know.
Not designed with the Argos in mind, that was all bs from Paul Godfrey.
In fact, even watching the Crap Jays is awful.

I know that some of the younger posters have a difficult time understanding why some Argos fans have a dislike of the Jays and I know that this dislike may not be entirely logical but I think this clip from 1990 (see the last bit of it in particular) explains why there have been hard feelings for so long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS8_saHeqCU

[R.J]

I know that some of the younger posters have a difficult time understanding why some Argos fans have a dislike of the Jays and I know that this dislike may not be entirely logical but I think this clip from 1990 (see the last bit of it in particular) explains why there have been hard feelings for so long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS8_saHeqCU
I can see your point Ravi, that's just sad to see. Love what McCarthy says at the end.

BTW I didn't know that the Argos had a Turle mascot, anyone remember his/her name ?

[argos1873]

BTW I didn't know that the Argos had a Turle mascot, anyone remember his/her name ?

Its name was Domer...

[Double Dare]

Its name was Domer... More like Dummer. Luckilyy there was never a Monster truck show the day before an Argo game!

[paulwoods13]

Ah, for the good ol' days when the stadium could be converted overnight in both directions.

[Fumblitis]

I know that some of the younger posters have a difficult time understanding why some Argos fans have a dislike of the Jays and I know that this dislike may not be entirely logical but I think this clip from 1990 (see the last bit of it in particular) explains why there have been hard feelings for so long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS8_saHeqCUJudging by those highlights, Ricky Foggie looked like a hall of famer...lol.

[paulwoods13]

Judging by those highlights, Ricky Foggie looked like a hall of famer...lol.

The Argos' offence in 1990 was so far beyond other teams' that not only Foggie but even the third-string guy (Willie Gillus) looked dominant at times. But Foggie was really sensational that year, including one game where he passed for seven TDs and ran for 100 yards!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUM5UoPgF1U&list=PLADD9C877F7CA3CFB

[Will]

I know that some of the younger posters have a difficult time understanding why some Argos fans have a dislike of the Jays and I know that this dislike may not be entirely logical but I think this clip from 1990 (see the last bit of it in particular) explains why there have been hard feelings for so long: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS8_saHeqCU

Is that not on SkyDome rather than the Blue Jays though? Remember the Blue Jays ownership had nothing to do with SkyDome's ownership at the time.


The Argos' offence in 1990 was so far beyond other teams' that not only Foggie but even the third-string guy (Willie Gillus) looked dominant at times. But Foggie was really sensational that year, including one game where he passed for seven TDs and ran for 100 yards!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUM5UoPgF1U&list=PLADD9C877F7CA3CFB

Yeah, Foggie's deficiencies as a Quarterback really didn't manifest themselves until he was handed the undisputed starter's job in 1992. I'd still contend that based purely on reading game summaries from late in the 1991 season that the Argos were winning some games in spite of Foggie.

[ArgoZ]

Is that not on SkyDome rather than the Blue Jays though? Remember the Blue Jays ownership had nothing to do with SkyDome's ownership at the time.

That is correct, the Jays ownership did not own Skydome. Judging by McCarthys comments, it seems the Argos had the legal power to kick the Jays out the next day, a situation that it's probably reversed today if needed.

[T-Bone]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>TONIGHT on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DailyPlanet?src=hash">#DailyPlanet</a> learn about Toronto <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays">@BlueJays</a> new turf installed in <a href="https://twitter.com/Rogers_Centre">@Rogers_Centre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpeningDay?src=hash">#OpeningDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ComeTogether?src=hash">#ComeTogether</a> <a href="http://t.co/eZ6HJRcvUO">pic.twitter.com/eZ6HJRcvUO</a></p>&mdash; Daily Planet (@dailyplanetshow) <a href="https://twitter.com/dailyplanetshow/status/585148758389817346">April 6, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Nothing like an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpeningDay?src=hash">#OpeningDay</a> win! FINAL: <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays">@BlueJays</a> 6, Yankees 1. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ComeTogether?src=hash">#ComeTogether</a></p>&mdash; Blue Jays (@BlueJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays/status/585174035232792578">April 6, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Fumblitis]

Nice to see the Jays off to a 7-0 lead in the top of the 4th after a couple rough nights at bat.

[Fumblitis]

Watching the Jays/Rays games the last few nights. I can't believe that Rogers has the money to burn that they do. They have this grandiose plan to boot the Argos out of the dome to put natural grass in after 2017 yet the drop all this money into this new turf that affects baseball negatively. Why wouldn't Rogers milk the old turf for all it's worth until the put natural grass in. Must be nice to have money to throw away.

http://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/746280

[ArgoZ]

Watching the Jays/Rays games the last few nights. I can't believe that Rogers has the money to burn that they do. They have this grandiose plan to boot the Argos out of the dome to put natural grass in after 2017 yet the drop all this money into this new turf that affects baseball negatively. Why wouldn't Rogers milk the old turf for all it's worth until the put natural grass in. Must be nice to have money to throw away.

http://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/746280

Sounds like a bunch of spoiled complainers. Last years turf was past due. Not only that, it looked almost embarrasingly ugly on TV. The Jays had to get new turf, no way could they milk it another 2-3 years. The new turf looks great and the artucle says softer. Do they mean soft like real grass?!

[Fumblitis]

Sounds like a bunch of spoiled complainers. Last years turf was past due. Not only that, it looked almost embarrasingly ugly on TV. The Jays had to get new turf, no way could they milk it another 2-3 years. The new turf looks great and the artucle says softer. Do they mean soft like real grass?!I don't know the announcers seem to allude to it being too soft and slow, so I'm not sure.

[Neely2005]

So the Blue Jays have won 11 in a row...

[Argo57]

So the Blue Jays have won 11 in a row...

Plenty of time for the yearly collapse.

[jerrym]

This situation is simply another reason for me to never buy anything Rogers.

[ArgoRavi]

Plenty of time for the yearly collapse.

LOL! It is pretty tight in the American League and has tightened up quite a bit in their division save for the Red Sox who are lagging behind. I still think that the Jays are about a .500 team and this winning streak won't last forever.

[1argoholic]

They're on a serious roll but if my Rogers Karma prediction pans out the Jays will continue to win zero when it counts. Used to love baseball and The Jays but those years are long gone.

[AngeloV]

They're on a serious roll but if my Rogers Karma prediction pans out the Jays will continue to win zero when it counts. Used to love baseball and The Jays but those years are long gone.

I'm not liking this. Where (or at least when) would Argos play their 4 consecutive October home dates, if they were to make the playoffs and have success?