Geddy Lee, the iconic bassist and keyboardist from Rush, shared his excitement for the Toronto Blue Jays as they enter the World Series as underdogs. Lee expressed a blend of cautious optimism and lingering pessimism, reminiscent of a legacy marked by disappointments since the Jays last championship win in 1993. That year, the team triumphed over the Philadelphia Phillies to claim the title.
Blue Jays’ Road to the World Series
The Toronto Blue Jays’ journey back to the World Series has been fraught with challenges. The team nearly secured a spot in 2016 but fell short against the Cleveland Indians in the American League Championship Series. Despite such setbacks, Lee’s dedication to the Jays remains unwavering. He has maintained his front-row seats, contributed music to the team’s promotional campaigns, and narrated introductions for their broadcasts.
Excitement Builds Ahead of World Series
As the Blue Jays prepared to open the World Series at Rogers Centre against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lee reflected on the significance of the moment. He recalled attending a recent game with his grandson, highlighting the unpredictability of baseball. The Jays demonstrated their resilience by staging a comeback, thrilling fans and creating lasting memories.
The Eeyore Mentality
Lee acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster of being a dedicated fan. He described the “woe is me” mentality that often accompanies supporting a team with a challenging history. Nonetheless, he is hopeful that this season may differ from past disappointments.
Changes in Baseball Culture
Since 1993, baseball has evolved significantly. Lee noted the increased pace of games and the high-energy atmosphere created in stadiums today. While he appreciates the excitement, he expressed a preference for a more genuine emotional experience over the intensified sensory stimulation often employed to engage younger fans.
Toronto vs. Los Angeles: A New Chapter
The upcoming series between the Jays and the Dodgers is particularly intriguing, especially in light of recent cultural narratives. Lee mentioned the competitive spirit brought on by the rivalry, notably the strained relationship between Toronto’s Drake and Los Angeles’s Kendrick Lamar. He acknowledged the disappointment of losing out on superstar Shohei Ohtani to the Dodgers but emphasized the privilege of watching top-tier talent face off.
Dean Angelo: The “Jacked Jays Fan”
Lee also spoke fondly of Dean Angelo, known as the “jacked Jays fan,” who gained fame during the ALDS. Recognizing Angelo as the son of a close friend, Lee found his newfound celebrity endearing and humorous.
Looking Ahead
As the World Series unfolds, Lee plans to travelling to Los Angeles to watch the games, as coinciding projects allow him to be in town. He has received numerous messages from friends across the U.S. cheering for the Jays, heightening the anticipation for what promises to be an exhilarating series.
