Toronto Blue Jays are removing statue of controversial billionaire outside the Rogers Centre
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Victor William
Feb 2, 2026 (8:15 PM)
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Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Ted Rogers (Former Owner) has officially left the building, and for the first time in years, the space outside Gates 5 and 6 feels like it actually belongs to baseball.
The controversial 12-foot bronze statue, long a target of fan ridicule and "Lake Ontario" jokes, is being moved to Rogers corporate headquarters.
In its place?
The only choice that ever made sense: Joe Carter (Drafted Round 1, 1981 by Cubs).
The team announced today that a statue immortalizing Carter's 1993 World Series-winning home run will take the spot on July 18, 2026.
This isn't just a renovation; it is an exorcism of the corporate vibe that plagued the Dome for too long.
Mark Shapiro and the front office deserve serious credit for reading the room as the team kicks off its 50th anniversary season.
Fans have been begging for legends to be honored over suits, and this move proves the organization is finally listening.
Reclaiming the soul of the Rogers Centre
As a fan, seeing the "Touch 'em all, Joe!" moment permanently cast in bronze where a telecom mogul once stood feels like poetic justice.
It signals a shift in culture that prioritizes the game's history over its ownership.
The Rogers Centre has been transformed inside with the new "Outfield District," and now the exterior matches that energy.
Joe Carter wasn't just a slugger (33 HR, 121 RBI in 1993); he was the heartbeat of back-to-back championships.
Replacing a suit with a jersey sends a powerful message to every fan walking up Bremner Boulevard.
This city loves its heroes, and for too long, our ballpark didn't reflect that.
July 18 is going to be an emotional day for everyone who remembers where they were when that ball went over the left-field wall.
The "Statue Curse" is lifted.
Now, let's play some baseball.
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