Nostalgia overload incoming as Blue Jays prepare for 50th anniversary

Happy anniversary, Toronto!
World Series - Los Angeles Dodgers v Toronto Blue Jays - Game Seven
World Series - Los Angeles Dodgers v Toronto Blue Jays - Game Seven | Mark Blinch/GettyImages

2026 will be a golden year for the Toronto Blue Jays.

No, that's not saying the Blue Jays are instantly 2026 World Series Champions or referencing the hit song from K-Pop Demon Hunters. It's to celebrate the Blue Jays' 50th season in MLB. Who can forget that snowy April 7 game in 1977, when the Blue Jays defeated the Chicago White Sox by a score of 9-5? The franchise's first division title in 1985? Their back-to-back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993? Or 2015's bat flip heard around the world?

There's a lot to reminisce about in 50 seasons, and the Blue Jays will make sure they honor as much of their rich history in Canada as they can.

Preparations are underway to celebrate 50 seasons of the Toronto Blue Jays

On Tuesday (Jan. 20), the Blue Jays unveiled their 50th-season logo, which will also be a patch worn on jerseys throughout the 2026 season. Highlighted by the original Blue Jays logo used from 1977 to 1996, their history will be honored as the season rolls along.

Along with the logo, the team announced further details and renovation updates to help commemorate the 50th season. To be ready for Opening Day on March 27, the Blue Jays stated there will be eight installations throughout the 100-level concourse that will honor players, moments, and franchise milestones. On top of that, there will be a display on the 100-level concourse in right field to pay homage to their championship years by listing accomplishments and displaying historical items.

There's a lot to honor in 50 years. Yes, we'll see something about Joe Carter's game-winning home run, or Jose Bautista's 2015 bat flip. Heck, you can also expect something on Dave Stieb throwing the only Blue Jays no-hitter.

But what about the smaller moments, like Doug Ault hitting the first home run in franchise history? What about Roy Halladay nearly getting a no-hitter in his second-ever start? Will we see a section honoring Carlos Delgado's four-home run game in 2003? There are undoubtedly many moments for the Blue Jays to decide on for their displays around the Rogers Centre.

Finally, and more importantly, the Blue Jays noted there will be a new concourse display to commemorate those on the Level of Excellence. Currently, the members are honored in the outfield, with their names displayed on the 500-level facade.

Creating a physical space for the Level of Excellence is long overdue for the Blue Jays. There are endless ways to honor each member. From game-used items to descriptive details and moments, it's great to allow younger generations to learn about those who helped lay the foundation for Toronto's beloved team.

How it will look remains to be seen, but a museum-esque display for each member would do it justice. For a team without statues of its most prominent franchise players, a physical Level of Excellence will certainly ease fans' concerns.

Opening Day will also be a busy one for the Blue Jays. Along with kicking off their 50th season, they'll most likely also honor their 2025 American League Championship. It goes without saying that there should be a banner-raising ceremony to add to the accomplishments proudly displayed above the jumbotron.

If you want to be part of the festivities on March 27, you'll need to be ready in the morning and prepare for the ever-entertaining Ticketmaster battle, as single-game tickets go on sale January 22 at 10 am.

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