Toronto Blue Jays: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
The Toronto Blue Jays, a team with a rich history and a legacy of success, have witnessed the rise of remarkable players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. From their inception in 1977 to the present day, the Blue Jays have experienced moments of triumph and have been home to some of the greatest talents in baseball.
The Toronto Blue Jays Mount Rushmore is a testament to the rich history and success of the franchise. These players, with their exceptional performances, leadership, and impact on the team’s success, embody the spirit of baseball and are forever etched in the hearts of the fans
As we explore the Toronto Blue Jays Mount Rushmore, we pay tribute to the players who have made significant contributions, achieved remarkable feats, and forever etched their names in the hearts of fans.
World Series Defense: Roberto Alomar
Position: Second Base
Career: 1988-2004
Years with Blue Jays: 1991-1995
Primary Stats: .300 batting average, 2724 Hits, 210 home runs, 1508 Runs, 1134 RBI, 1407 double plays
Accolades: HOF inductee, 18-time All-Star, 7 Silver Slugger, 14 Gold Gloves
Roberto Alomar, a dynamic second baseman, brought excellence and finesse to the Blue Jays. Alomar’s exceptional defensive skills and ability to hit for average and power made him an invaluable asset to the team. He was a key catalyst for the Blue Jays’ success, providing stability in the infield and contributing offensively and defensively.
Alomar and Joe Carter were traded from the Padres in 1991 for Fred McGriff and Tony Hernandez. This trade resulted in the back-to-back World Series in 92-93, the only World Series in Blue Jays history.
The World Series Years: Joe Carter
Position: First Base
Career: 1983-1998
Years with Blue Jays: 1991-1998
Primary Stats: .259 batting average, 396 home runs, 1170 Runs, 1445 RBI,
Accolades: 5-time All-Star, 2 Silver Slugger
In the early 1990s, the Toronto Blue Jays experienced a golden era of success, winning back-to-back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993. One players, in particular, became synonymous with the team’s triumphant run – Joe Carter.
Carter, known for his walk-off home run in the 1993 World Series, will forever be remembered as a hero in Blue Jays history. Carter’s power-hitting, clutch performances and leadership propelled the team to new heights. His contributions to the franchise extended beyond that iconic moment, as he consistently delivered with his bat and played a vital role in the team’s success.
His World Series moment was so impactful for most MLB fans it’s the pinnacle of the Blue Jays franchise. It’s been immortalized in pop culture, a pure walk off long shot that may never be forgotten, maximized by Vin Scully’s classic play call. “ Left field, way back!, Blue Jays win it!.
He would then go on to call him Joe Turner, but he was correct in one thing when he said “Touch them all Joe, you’ll never hit a bigger home run un in your life”. Carter went 7-for-25 (.280), two homers and eight RBI, even with that walk off moon shot, he did not get the World Series MVP, but he’s the only thing we all remember from that series.
The Ace: Roy Halladay
Position: Starting Pitcher
Career: 1998-2013
Years with Blue Jays: 1998-2009
Primary Stats: 203 Wins, 3.38 ERA, 2117 Strikeouts
Accolades: HOF inductee, 2 Cy Youngs, 3- time 20 Game winner, 8-time All-Star,
Roy Halladay, a true pitching legend, left an indelible mark on the Toronto Blue Jays franchise. Known for his work ethic, competitiveness, and unwavering dedication to his craft, Halladay established himself as one of the premier pitchers of his era. His dominance on the mound earned him numerous accolades, including two Cy Young Awards.
Halladay’s impact extended beyond his exceptional statistics. He led on and off the field, setting an example for his teammates through his professionalism and commitment to excellence. His presence on the Blue Jays’ Mount Rushmore is a testament to his lasting legacy and the profound impact he had on the franchise.
Halladay passed away November 7, 2017 at the age of 40, when his small plane crashed in the Gulf of Mexico. The Blue Jays organization posthumously retired his number 32 on March 29, 2018, with the Phillies retiring his number 34 on August 8, 2021. Halladay was announced as an inductee to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on January 22, 2019.
The Power Hitter: Carlos Delgado
Position: First Base
Career: 1993-2009
Years with Blue Jays: 1993-2004
Primary Stats: .280 batting average, 473 home runs, 1241 Runs, 1512 RBI, .929 OPS
Accolades: 2-time All-Star, 2 Silver Slugger,
Carlos Delgado, a towering presence in the lineup, was a force to be reckoned with during his tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays. Known for his prodigious power and ability to drive in runs, Delgado established himself as one of the premier sluggers in baseball. He holds numerous franchise records, including the all-time leader in home runs.
Delgado’s impact extended beyond his offensive prowess. He was a respected figure in the clubhouse and a vocal leader on the team. His commitment to the game and his impact on the field make him a deserving Toronto Blue Jays Mount Rushmore member.
The Future: Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
As the Toronto Blue Jays continue to build for the future, two young stars are poised to make their mark on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore – Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Bo Bichette burst onto the scene in 2019 and quickly became a fan favorite. His electrifying play, exceptional hitting, and defensive skills have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Bichette’s passion for the game and infectious energy make him a player to watch in the future.
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Bichette has amassed 626 hits with a .302 average in his three full years with the Blue Jays. Bichette missed the last 2.5 weeks with an injury and still leads the AL in hits (148). He’s on-pace to do that for the 3rd year in a rowIf He stays with the Jays and continues his production, he will be the Blue Jay’s all-time hit leader by the end of 2028, replacing Tony Hernandez and his 1547 hits. He should replace Alomar on the MT Rushmore by the end of his career, but longevity will be the key.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero, is another young star with immense talent and potential. Known for his prodigious power and ability to hit for average, Guerrero Jr. has already shown glimpses of greatness. His natural ability and baseball pedigree make him an exciting player as he continues to develop and make his mark on the franchise.
Guerro has slugged 122 homers with a .281 average in five years with the Blue Jays. Barring any contract extension issues or injuries, he is on pace for 400 home runs in his career, overtaking Delgado’s 336 as a Blue Jay and likely replacing him on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore.