Toronto Blue Jays fans gather outside Toronto City Hall to watch the team's opening MLB playoff game against the Texas Rangers on Oct. 8.Chris Young/The Canadian Press
There is no shame to being a newbie follower of the baseball Blue Jays, but if you wish not to identify as a bandwagon fan, here are a few suggestions and nuggets to help smooth the transition from novice supporter to hard-core rooter.
Fact: The hunky, new Jays' third baseman is Josh Donaldson. He rides a unicorn, heals the sick and answers to the stadium-wide chant of "M-V-P!"
Tip: For worn-in Blue Jay apparel – mustard stains optional – head to the Public Butter, a second-hand shop at 1290 Queen St. W. in Parkdale.
Fact: The cascading crowd effect known as "The Wave" should move counterclockwise, as it circles Rogers Centre.
Tip: Don't do The Wave.
Fact: The person inside the mascot suit at Jays games – Ace is the giant bird's name – is the rap star Drake.
Tip: The final game of the playoff series against the Texas Rangers – scheduled for Oct. 14, if necessary – is sold out. But tickets are available (at inflated prices) at stubhub.com, a safe secondary market for seats.
Fact: Rangers suck.
Brad Wheeler