Blue Jays: First 2021 schedule changes extends stay in Dunedin

The Blue Jays have already seen their first schedule tweak as far as where their home field will be, which could be a common theme in 2021.

The original plan was for the Jays to play their first two homestands in Dunedin at TD Ballpark. After that the assumed plan was to move to Sahlen Field in Buffalo at some point where they played their home games in 2020. The biggest motivation for that would be the upgrades that were put in place last year, giving it a lot closer feel to a big league ballpark.

However, on Tuesday it was announced that they’ll now host their first three homestands of the season, which covers their first 22 games starting with hosting from Apr 8-11, followed by a three-game set with the Yankees from Apr 12-14.

It remains to be seen if and when the Jays will eventually move to Sahlen Field, and hopefully eventually back to the Rogers Centre. It’s clear the Blue Jays have the approval of league to stay in Florida at least for now, and thankfully they have a beautiful new facility to make things work.

To rub some salt in the wound for Blue Jays fans who are missing the team north of the border, baseball fans in the Dunedin area will be able to watch the game’s in person. There will still be limited capacity and social distancing in place, but the Jays won’t have to play to a completely empty stadium for their home games. Back in February the announcement was a 15% capacity, and that’s likely where things will begin.

Even if I’m a little jealous, I’m choosing to view that as a step in the right direction, and I’m sure the players will enjoy hearing some voices in the stands again. I’m sure they’re also thankful to stay in one place for a while as far as a home field, and hopefully we can celebrate a triumphant return to Toronto later this year.