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Toronto Blue Jays plans for new stadium on hold for now

By David Hill

TORONTO, ON - JULY 8: A general view of the Rogers Centre during the Toronto Blue Jays MLB game against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre on July 8, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
TORONTO, ON - JULY 8: A general view of the Rogers Centre during the Toronto Blue Jays MLB game against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre on July 8, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** /
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The Toronto Blue Jays are looking to build a new stadium, although those plans are currently on hold due to the pandemic.

The Rogers Centre opened back in 1989, a domed stadium needed for those cold Aprils in Canada. It has been the home for several highlights for the Toronto Blue Jays, including their consecutive World Series championships in 1992 and 1993. There are plenty of fond memories for the old SkyDome amongst the Blue Jays faithful.

But the Rogers Centre is also a relic. It was built prior to the retro ballparks, featuring more of an open feel. This is also one of only two stadiums left that use artificial turf, another holdover from the olden days.

Unsurprisingly, the Blue Jays are looking to build a new stadium. According to reports, Rogers Communications, owners of the Blue Jays, want to demolish the current stadium and build a new one in that spot. Failing that, their second option would be to build a stadium at Toronto’s waterfront.

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This new stadium would be entirely funded by Rogers Communications. Based on their plans, not only would there be a new stadium with natural grass, but also residential towers, office buildings, and stores for the site.

For now, however, those plans are on hold. Due to uncertainty about the pandemic, ownership has paused their quest to build a new stadium and is focusing on keeping their players and fans healthy. There is also the issue that the Canada Lands Company owns the property, and is leasing it to the team through 2088.

This continues the trend throughout the game of replacing stadiums after a couple of decades. Both the Braves and Rangers replaced their newer ballparks recently. While the Blue Jays have a good reason for desiring a new park, given that the Rogers Centre is outdated, it is notable that the stadium has barely lasted for three decades. At least, in this case, ownership would be footing the bill.

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The Toronto Blue Jays are looking to get a new stadium. While those plans are on hold for now, this could become reality in the coming years.

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