The Dominican made his name in Major League Baseball during his ten seasons in Toronto from 2008 to 2017.
A powerful puncher, he was named to the All-Star Game six times between 2010 and 2015. He also won the Silver Stick three times, in 2010, 2011 and 2014.
Bautista made a big impression when he hit a three-run homer in the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American Division Series in October 2015. He then threw his stick in the air in celebration, a gesture now known as The Bat Flip.
« José won hearts and electrified fans as part of the team that got Toronto into the playoffs for the first time in 22 years. »
His exploits on the field have propelled the team to glory, and he undoubtedly belongs in the Blue Jays’ Level of Excellence.
Mr. Shapiro added in a statement.
Ceremony in August
The Blue Jays will honor Bautista at a ceremony before their game against the Chicago Cubs on August 12. The first 15,000 spectators to enter the stadium will also receive a dancing head figurine (bobble head) in his likeness.
I am deeply touched and excited to become a member of the Blue Jays Level of Excellence and to be recognized among the big names that adorn the Rogers Center
said Bautista.
« Canada holds a special place in my heart and will always be home to my family and I, and we look forward to celebrating this honor with my beloved Blue Jays fans – baseball’s greatest fans! »
Bautista holds the Blue Jays team record for most homers in a season, with 54. He totaled 288 in ten seasons with the Toronto team, which gives him the second most in history. of the team, behind Joe Carter.
Acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates by Toronto in 2008, Bautista also played with the Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, Baltimore Orioles, New York Mets, Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies.
In all, he hit 344 home runs, scored 975 runs and had 1,496 hits.
