A police officer at Game 2 of the World Series in Toronto on Saturday.Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press
It will be a Halloween like no other in Toronto, as the city and its baseball fans welcome back the Blue Jays for a home game that could end in the team’s first World Series win in more than three decades.
Previous games in the series have not only filled the Rogers Centre, but also brought thousands of fans into the city’s core to public viewing events, sports bars and other venues. On Friday, the game will screen at Scotiabank Arena and Nathan Phillips Square outside City Hall. The University of Toronto is hosting a viewing party, as are public squares in cities such as Brampton, Mississauga and Aurora.
The city’s transit agency and police force said they were ready for the crowds, but the high stakes have also prompted increased security measures.
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The Toronto Police Service says its officers are rooting for the Jays and peaceful crowds. But the force also says it is also prepared to put a lid on some celebrating if things boil over.
“The service is fully mobilized for the weekend, and every division and unit is engaged. We’ll also have assistance from neighbouring police services,” said Nadine Ramadan, a spokesperson. “Fans can expect to see a significant and visible police presence both inside and outside Rogers Centre.”
The force has previously said it would implement measures during the World Series such as no-fly zones for drones, physical barriers outside the Rogers Centre, and road closings in some areas.
Officials have urged fans to take transit to avoid problems with traffic and parking, while the Toronto Transit Commission warned of potential disruptions.
“The TTC will also monitor series-deciding games and may need to adjust downtown bus and streetcar routes in the core,” spokesman Stuart Green said in a statement. “This could include diversions or short turns to avoid crowded streets.”
Metrolinx, which runs the region’s GO commuter rain and bus service, said it had additional trips planned.
“Metrolinx is adding additional GO services for Game 6 [and a possible Game 7] at Rogers Centre,” said spokesperson Andrea Ernesaks. The Kitchener Line, Barrie Line, and Stouffville Line will carry commuters home for around 2 a.m., she said.
One downtown bar, The Pint, is even advertising a Boo Jays Night – complete with drawings of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette as undead athletes.