As some of you might already know, a new kind of Republic was born halfway through the 2016 Baseball season. At the same time, some of you might have no idea what I’m talking about. Either way, feel free to revisit/check out BlueJaysRepublic.com as we embark on our first full season of coverage.
To the readers who are currently wondering why a Baseball article is appearing on a Basketball site: Well, allow me to elaborate:
1. I’ll just come right out and say it: Promoting something on an established website is just good business. Especially when: (a) Some of the people involved already contribute to RR, and (b) the potential for crossover appeal is relatively high. Besides, considering how much of a traffic jam the blogosphere has become, shameless plugs are now necessary just to survive. Which reminds me, you can also follow @BJaysRepublic on Twitter.
2. Given the platform I’m writing this on, it only makes sense to incorporate a bit of Raptors content (stay tuned). But if you really look at it, the Raps and Jays have numerous things in common.
3. Even though I went into detail earlier this morning, why not spread the positivity OPENING DAY! brings anywhere I can.
Now, on with the show:
Speaking of positives vibes, can anyone remember a point in time when the excitement surrounding Toronto’s sports scene was as wide spread as it is now? (No offence, Argos fans.)
I mean, the Leafs are on the verge of making the playoffs (knock on wood) for just the second time in 12 seasons, the Raps’ window has escalated to the point where an NBA Finals appearance (knock on wood) isn’t just wishful thinking, TFC has created an atmosphere where this city’s abundance of Soccer fans don’t always have to look elsewhere to get their fix, and the Jays, even with the loss of a big gun/fan favorite, are still in a position (knock on wood) to make a run at their third straight ALCS appearance.
Side note regarding the Leafs:
Dear MLSE (Hockey department): Isn’t it amazing what can be accomplished when you actually commit to a rebuild instead of annually being content/taking advantage of the money mediocrity still provided?
In the past, growing up in this city meant a sports hierarchy came attached with the experience — and it’s no secret that Hockey sat on the throne when it came to overall fandom. However, one could make a definitive case that the Raps (and Jays soon after) sparked a new way of life…on and off the court/field/ice.
Let’s bask in its glory for a sec:
In 2013-14, the Raps were the only squad left standing in terms of respectability. Their playoff battle with Brooklyn, and entertaining run getting there, not only came on the heels of the Leafs reminding us they didn’t belong on the postseason stage to begin with (AKA: their meltdown vs. Boston), but it also coincided with the Jays frustrating fans for the 19th straight year. Needless to say, it’s been an uphill climb ever since.
In two of the following three years, the Jays followed suit…and in many ways, they rejuvenated a city that was desperate for something to latch on to. When two teams that don’t sit atop the aforementioned hierarchy become the best shows in town, a new appreciation takes over…one that’s evened this city’s playing field more than ever before. Toronto, for the most part, is now a town where “we’re all in this together” isn’t just window dressing anymore.
With that said, though, I won’t be naive to the fact that the Raps and Jays still operate within different parameters. Mainly due to the fact that they’re both the only Canadian franchise roaming their respective leagues.
Another side note: I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a shout out to the people of Vancouver and Montreal. The Grizzlies deserved another chance at making it work and the Expos were essentially a sitting duck after the 1994 Baseball strike. Here’s to the rumblings of an Expos’ return eventually coming true and to the hope of an NBA franchise suiting up in the Western part of Canada once again.
I often wondered, though, how the NBA hasn’t indulged itself in the idea in of a Montreal franchise. By most accounts, it could flourish. Perhaps the return of Baseball (knock on wood) can have a domino effect.
Back to the similarities between the two clubs that have recently narrowed the mainstream gap:
1. The emotional leader:
Every team has one. But look no further than Kyle Lowry and Josh Donaldson as the ones who take that title to a whole new level. Despite each team being able to hold their own without their services, does anyone think the current championship window of either club can come to fruition without either one? Not to mention that with both having looming contract situations (Lowry’s this offseason, JD’s coming soon) their importance is tenfold. Bottom line: Although the future is always on the shortlist of concerns, it would be unwise not to soak up what the moment has to offer.
2. The Polarizing 1A Player:
Combined, DeMar DeRozan and Jose Bautista have suited up in a Toronto uniform for 17 years. With so much history, it’s inevitable that a back-and-forth bandwagon will present itself throughout. But considering where each franchise currently sits, perhaps a new bandwagon should be front and center: A movement that sits back and realizes what they’ve meant to the climb of each team instead of taking their contributions for granted.
3. When tantalizing skills meet frustrating results:
He may not be a Raptor anymore, but T-Ross left behind a legacy that defines the notion. It also doesn’t take long to find his Blue Jays doppelgänger, even if he does look a hell of a lot like Kyle Lowry:
This is where things get eerily similar: Just like how Ross became the prime candidate to be traded if the opportunity to fill a void presented itlsef, Stroman falls into the same cateogory. With question marks on offence, other notable contract situations brewing in the background, and other teams more than willing to part with a win-now piece in order to secure a young up-and-comer, the Stro Show could very well end up being shipped out of town.
4. The underrated newcomers:
Francisco Liriano and P.J. Tucker: Both came at a discount price, both have made their presence felt in a short amount of time, and both have filled a missing piece to each team’s puzzle. Tucker’s instantly brought an infectious and much needed defensive intensity, while Liriano (knock on wood) solidifies a starting rotation that will need to compensate for the offence (at least on paper) taking a bit of a step back. They’re a duo that’s underrated by the masses, but appreciated by the home crowd.
5. The fear that comes after losing an impact piece:
They may not compare when it comes to skill sets, but both Bismack Biyombo and Edwin Encarnacion’s departures can be viewed in the same light. There was plenty of concerns surrounding the Raps after Bismack left, and rightfully so. In fact, one can argue that it wasn’t until Serge Ibaka adjusted the flow and pecking order of this roster that one could finally move on. And while the financial restrictions may be different, we’re about to find out if Mark Shapiro and Russ Atkins have either already done their best Masai Ujiri impersonation or still have a lot to learn.
In closing, and in the spirit of similarities, I think I can speak for the rest of the BJR crew:
While Blue Jays Republic will continue to strive to stand on its own and build its own community, the Quick Reactions and Morning Coffees you’re all familiar with will continue to go both ways. We’ll also have Series Previews along with regular features and podcasts. But above all, you’ll find the same passion, unbiased opinions, and the same willingness to criticize a situation when the moment calls for it that you’re accustomed to here at RR.
I’ll see you all at Camden Yards later this afternoon..
