The Toronto Blue Jays and baseball season in Ontario

The history of baseball in Ontario

Baseball has a long, rich history in Ontario that’s sure to pique the interest of any sports lover. The first game ever recorded in Ontario was played on June 4, 1838, in Beachville and the sport has enjoyed a committed fan following ever since.

Ontario has two beloved baseball-themed historical sites for you to visit in Southwestern Ontario:

Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Established in Toronto in 1982, the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum moved to St. Marys in 1994. Roughly a two-hour drive from Toronto, the newly renovated century-old building pays tribute to the 155 inductees who changed the course of Canadian baseball history.

The museum also houses the Harry Simmons Memorial Library. Make an appointment to visit the vast archive collection where you can browse vintage scorecards and programs from the past. 

Before you go, check the museum’s website for hours of operation as they change seasonally. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Admission includes access to the museum, picnic areas and fields. Local teams can book the field, so there may even be a game to watch.

Location: 386 Church Street South, St. Marys

Labatt Memorial Park

Ontario is home to the world's oldest continually operating baseball grounds. Labatt Memorial Park, only a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto, is a must-visit for baseball enthusiasts. 

Pre-book a 60-minute tour to delve deep into the history of this baseball landmark. Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you through the grandstand, dugout and press box. And don’t forget your glove and a ball, you’ll be able to play a bit of catch on the historic field too. Before leaving, wander through the original 1937 Roy McKay Clubhouse for a stroll down memorabilia lane.

Tours are offered from late May until the end of August. Be sure to pre-book your visit 48 hours in advance as walk-up tours are not accepted.

Location: 25 Wilson Avenue, London

The Toronto Blue Jays

Major League Baseball (MLB), the most prominent professional baseball league in North America, only has one team in Canada—the Toronto Blue Jays (or “the Jays” as they’re known locally). 

From Jesse Barfield to José Bautista, the Jays have had countless baseball legends in their dugout since joining the league in 1977. The team won back-to-back World Series in 1992 and 1993 and fans are forever hopeful they’ll be crowned champions once again.

Games at the Rogers Centre

The Blue Jays play their home games in the Rogers Centre located at 1 Blue Jays Way. An iconic part of the Toronto skyline, the stadium sits right next to the CN Tower. 

Blue Jays ticket prices vary depending on the game and the seat and single-game tickets can be purchased on Ticketmaster.

Jr. Jays for Kids 

Every Sunday home game at the Rogers Centre, kids under 14 are invited to visit Jr. Jays Zones throughout the stadium, where they can take part in fun games and activities.

But the most exciting activity of all is running the bases. Just like their favourite players, kids can run the bases on the field after the game. Be sure to book a timeslot.

Tour the Rogers Centre

Experience the home of the Toronto Blue Jays in a whole new way. 

Expert guides will lead you on a one-hour walking tour of the stadium. You’ll get a glimpse of what goes on behind-the-scenes, visit different levels, the press box and a luxury suite while you learn about iconic events and past games. 

Tickets can be purchased at the tour box office beside the Jays Shop entrance or online.

Ontario’s baseball leagues

If you’re looking to venture off the beaten baseball path, Ontario has two lesser-known but equally entertaining leagues for you to discover.

Premier Baseball League of Ontario

See up-and-coming baseball stars at the Premier Baseball League of Ontario, an amateur league whose talented, young players often go on to do great things. Many of them have been drafted to MLB.

Consisting of 10 teams from across the province, catching one of these free games gives you the chance to say you saw a baseball legend before they made it to the big leagues.

Visit individual team websites for game dates and details.

Intercounty Baseball League

Taking in an Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) game is one of the most authentic baseball experiences Ontario has to offer. 

Since 1919, elite NCAA college players and former MLB pros have been calling the IBL home. With nine teams across Southern Ontario playing regular season games from May through August. 

The IBL provides baseball fans with a big league experience without the big league price tags. Find out who will win the coveted Dominico Cup, visit individual team websites to purchase tickets. 

Shop for Toronto Blue Jays merch

Jays Shop

Buy baseball merch at the ballgame. Visit the Jays Shop, the official team store of the Toronto Blue Jays, located at two locations in the Rogers Centre (gates 1 and 5). Both stores offer a wide selection of Jays’ merchandise, such as hats, hoodies and jerseys.

Location: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto or online

Watch a game at baseball-friendly bars and restaurants

Sportsnet Grill

With floor-to-ceiling windows offering incredible views into the Rogers Centre, a bite and a beer at Sportsnet Grill is truly a unique way to experience a ballgame.

While you’re watching the Jays from the comfort of your table, order from their mouth-watering menu. Try their burgers, butter chicken, salads or pulled pork sliders.

If you’re feeling competitive, try the Slugger Challenge. Finish the 24-inch all-beef hot dog topped with bacon crumble, bacon jam, Swiss cheese, chipotle mayo and a sprinkle of spring onions in five minutes or less and it’s free!

On game days, reservations are highly recommended. 

Location: Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel, 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto

Left Field Brewery

Born from a passion for both craft beer and baseball, Left Field brews a wide range of baseball-inspired beers including IPAs, sours, dark ales, easy-drinking ales and lagers as well as hard seltzers. They even have a line of non-alcoholic sparkling water!

Tucked away in Leslieville, a historic neighbourhood in Toronto’s east end, you’ll find the brewery and bottle shop. But to catch a game, enjoy a pint and dig into their delicious ballpark-inspired menu, head to the Liberty Village location.

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, pick up some Left Field merch. The Batting Practise Hoodie and the Bullpen Crewneck make for great gifts.

Locations: 

• 36 Wagstaff Drive, Toronto (Leslieville)
• 40 Hanna Avenue, Toronto (Liberty Village)

The Dock Ellis 

Located in Toronto’s trendy Dundas West neighbourhood, The Dock Ellis (named after the famed Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher), is Toronto’s hippest sports bar. 

Equipped with multiple TVs so you’ll never miss a play, foosball and pool tables to keep you busy during the 7th inning stretch, this Blue Jays-loving bar is the perfect spot to catch a game.

Location: 1280 Dundas Street West, Toronto

Steam Whistle Brewery

Located just east of the Rogers Centre in the iconic John Street Roundhouse, a Canadian national historic site, Steam Whistle is one of Toronto’s most beloved craft beers. 

Before heading to the game, stop by to sample one of Toronto’s favourite beers and have a bite to eat. The seasonal menu always offers delicious options.

If you have a bit of extra time, you can visit the tap room to learn more about the brewing process or book a tour for a historical look at this former train maintenance building.

Get ready for game day and become a fan of Ontario’s baseball scene. With so many exciting leagues, interesting museums and fun bars and restaurants, enjoy the ultimate experience for the baseball fan.