An expansion team conceived in 1976, the Toronto Blue Jays expectedly struggled in their first season in Major League Baseball despite setting a new expansion team record for ticket sales. The team name was decided by a write in contest idea from a fan, who reasoned that it made sense due to the fact that all other sports teams in the town had the colors blue and white, in addition to the fact the city has a large population of blue jays. The Toronto Blue Jays currently play at the Rogers Centre ball park and have played there since 1989. The Blue Jays have had the luxury of being home to several Hall of Fame players including pitcher Phil Niekro and designated hitters Paul Molitor and Dave Winfield. In the recent past, Hank Aaron Award winner Carlos Delgado and Cy Young Award winning pitchers Roger Clemens and Roy Halladay. The Blue Jays list of franchise accomplishments include two World Series Championships, two American League pennants, five LCS appearances, and five AL East division titles.
The Toronto Blue Jays have started off slow this season. They currently hold a 35-36 record, putting them in 5th place in the American League East division. Due to the injury of lead-off hitter and fan favorite, Reed Johnson, the Blue Jays acquired All-Star shortstop David Eckstein to take his place. Eckstein is a two-time World Champion, the 2006 World Series MVP, and a Babe Ruth Award winner. He joins superstar pitcher Roy Hallday and Gold Glove award winning 3rd baseman Scott Rolen to an excellent Blue Jays roster this season. Tickets are selling slow until the Blue Jays make a turnaround to the slow start they've had thus far in the season. Look for a turnaround from this great line-up once chemistry and cohesiveness is reached for the team and ticket sales will rise accordingly. The Toronto Blue Jays look towards improving upon this record towards a victorious season.
