The Toronto Blue Jays are close to securing their first playoff series win in almost ten years. The excitement is palpable among Blue Jays supporters nationwide, including on P.E.I., where one of the founding directors of the team, Don McDougall, played a pivotal role in establishing the franchise in the 1970s.
Expressing his enthusiasm, McDougall mentioned that he, like many others, is filled with hope as the Blue Jays lead 2-0 over the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series. With just one more victory needed to advance to the American League Championship Series (ALCS), the team is on the brink of a significant achievement.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, McDougall highlighted the thrill of witnessing the ups and downs, victories, and defeats over the years, especially in the current season which has been particularly riveting.
Having been instrumental in bringing Major League Baseball to Toronto in the 1970s, McDougall reminisced about the early days when the team’s total payroll was a mere fraction of what it is today. The exponential growth in the team’s value, now estimated at $2.1 billion by Fortune Magazine, showcases the remarkable evolution of the Blue Jays over the years.
Looking ahead to Game 3 and beyond, McDougall emphasized the enduring focus on nurturing young talent within the team, a strategy that has remained consistent despite the evolving landscape of professional baseball. He drew parallels to the team’s successful era in the 1980s and early 90s, underscoring the solid foundation and promising prospects that have reignited hopes for a successful playoff run.
If the Blue Jays clinch victory in the upcoming game, they will advance to face either the Seattle Mariners or the Detroit Tigers in the ALCS, with the ultimate goal being a shot at the World Series title. The team’s past triumphs in the early 1990s serve as a reminder of their potential for success at the highest level of professional baseball.