Upgraded comfort and enhanced fan experience awaits baseball fans ahead of Monday’s home opener at the Rogers Centre, post phase 2 of the renovations.
The Toronto Blue Jays have just pulled back the curtain on the latest improvements to the Rogers Centre, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing renovation saga. As the Blue Jays gear up for their home opener against Seattle on April 8, fans are eager to see the transformative changes firsthand, particularly in the 100-level bowl and the area surrounding home plate.
Foul territory reimagined—9,000 sqft smaller
One of the most striking changes this season is in the foul territory, where alterations to the 100-level bowl promise a new viewing experience for fans. The modifications include new seating arrangements behind home plate, complete with cup holders—a small but highly anticipated feature for baseball aficionados. These updates were part of a media tour held four days before the much-awaited home opener, showcasing the next stage of enhancements at the ballpark.
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$400-million leap forward
The $400-million CAD privately funded multi-year project signifies a leap into a new era at the iconic Rogers Centre. Following the unveiling of outfield renovations in the first phase at the start of the last season, the second phase focuses on elevating the fan experience even further. The Rogers Centre is set to become the sixth-oldest active MLB ballpark, emphasizing the importance of these updates.
Bringing fans closer to the action
Tom Farrell, the Director of Field Operations for the Blue Jays, expressed his enthusiasm about the renovations, emphasizing the goal to immerse fans directly into the game’s atmosphere. Notable changes include adjusted sightlines, allowing fans in the left and right-field corners to have a clear view of the infield and pitching mound—enhancements designed to bring fans closer to the action. This includes a significant reduction in the green portion of the baseball field, shrinking by about 9,000 square feet to improve sightlines and engagement.
Greats eats—with even better views
The Blue Jays have also spiced up their menu, introducing an array of unique food items such as Crush floats, peanut butter and jelly churros, loaded mac and cheese, and maple bacon hot dogs. These new offerings, available starting April 8, aim to enrich the game day experience with culinary delights.
Mark Shapiro, the president and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays, reiterated the organization’s commitment to providing an authentic ballpark viewing experience. The reconstruction of the 100-level seating bowl is central to this vision, with sightlines meticulously designed for optimal enjoyment of Blue Jays baseball.
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Remember going to a game only to look at the person infront of you’s head for most of it (especially if they’re a taller person)? Due to the incline it was inevitable. Now, they levelled things out so you have a better view of the field, which also makes it easier to go down the steps too. In phase 1 they had already introduced cup holders but not for the full arena, now every seat in the lower bowl does have one. But thats not all, they also have more leg room, and more spacious seating which is also more comfortable.
Additionally, there’s new seating options in a premium area that offers cushy theatre-style seating with a side table too. Think Cineplex VIP style, but at the ball game. Take a closer look at the options here in a video we put out on Instagram and Tiktok.
Behind the scenes of the renovation
The renovation process involved a significant amount of structural demolition, with an average of 350 workers on-site daily between October 13 and 26, 2023. This phase saw the removal and recycling of millions of pounds of concrete and steel, followed by extensive field-level excavation to prepare for the new installations.
From a stadium to a ballpark ⚾️
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) November 21, 2023
Second phase of Rogers Centre renovations are underway! pic.twitter.com/1fzguh2JXU
As the Rogers Centre welcomes fans back with its fresh look and improved amenities, the Toronto Blue Jays are set to begin a new chapter in their storied history. The Phase 2 renovations not only enhance the fan experience but also reiterate the franchise’s commitment to maintaining a world-class baseball environment.
Here’s how you can get your tickets to the Home opener and more:
Tickets are flying so get them while you still can. They’re available through ticketmaster here.
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Originally published on April 4th
