Toronto’s diamond in the rough
The SkyDome
a legendary Game 7
at the place our boys call home
Vladdy, Addy, and Kirk
demonstrating efforts and
determination
akin to artwork
reminiscing over the historic
talent
Springer, Bo,
and Clement
gift us feelings other than lament
a series that rallied our nation
refocusing our camaraderie,
resilience,
and patience
let us not forget the pride
they instilled,
the hope they mustered,
or how Yesavage ravaged those
LA motherf*ckers
a love affair with October baseball
the instrument needed
to unite Canadians this fall
but alas,
our finest form of escapism
has escaped us
now heartbreak welcomes
the winter
and back to reality we
reluctantly flee
just like hibernation
for the bears and the bees
but birds of a feather
flock together
Blue Jays
and phoenixes alike
will rise from the ashes
with even more might
on the next venture we embark
our ferocity and spirit
are bound to hit it out of the park
fresh wounds
still too surreal
hopeful that time will heal
the scars will fade
and serve as reminders
for what is still to be achieved
and that we must
Believe
Believe
Believe
Blue Jays still sing
and heed the words of Ted Lasso
so, one day we will
win the whole f*cking thing
My name is Bryn Bhalerao and I am proudly born and raised in Leaside. Although my true passion and work lie in the academic field as an anatomy educator in higher education, I have also been drawn to the arts my entire life. I grew up as a competitive dancer and have integrated visual arts and music into the many facets of my life. Outside of work, I also take interest in hiking with my dog Bella (Serena Gundy Park is our favourite spot), kickboxing, and exploring the city with friends and family.
Despite being a bandwagon fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, I made up for lost time with the intensity of my commitment and support to Canada’s MLB team during the 2025 World Series. As I was reflecting on the heart-breaking loss, I was also struck with amazement by how this series brought Canada together. I tried to articulate this duality in my poem. It was extremely cathartic and uplifting to write, so, it is my hope that this poem resonates with other Jays fans in our city.
This article was guest contributed by Bryn Bhalerao.