Less than a week before the regular season starts!
Kudos to all of us for surviving another winter! There’s nothing like the feeling of Opening Day when all the teams are on equal footing and have a chance at glory. Of course, I’m excited!
But some of you aren’t.
During a recent episode of Deep Left Field, Mr. Wilner read listener feedback from a fan who said they couldn’t bring themselves to watch the 2024 season, despite being a Jays fan for about 40 years.
It was heartbreaking to hear such a thing. But that sadness quickly changed to anger.
Found myself directing all kinds of rude terms towards that fan. Called them a traitor, quitter, fake fan, etc. But that anger quickly changed to acceptance.
We can’t control what other fans think. Not everyone will cheer for the Jays regardless of where they sit in the standings. Not everyone chooses to embrace the pain or wants to let things play out.
If that fan wants to sit out, they are well within their right to do so. That fan identifies the Jays as a source of stress, frustration and negativity. Rather than enduring that, the fan has decided to put their mental health ahead of their love of baseball. Can’t fault them for that.
In fact, it’s a good lesson for many in the #JaysTwitter universe.
NOBODY is forcing you to watch the Jays this season.
If you truly feel this team is going to underperform; if you believe the Jays will miss the playoffs and win fewer games than last year; if you’re angry with the front office and unhappy with the direction of the team; if you’re pissed about how much it costs to attend a match or can’t stand the music and sound effects played in between pitches and inning breaks, then you don’t have to watch them.
Simple as that.
You don’t have to stream the broadcasts. You don’t have to buy tickets. You don’t have to consume related podcasts and blogs. You don’t have to torture yourself or follow out of anger.
You are in control. FOMO and loyalty, be damned!
The pessimism and snark have been painfully present since the Jays were swept by the Twins last October. So, why go through the torment?
Instead of investing in the Jays, you could reallocate your energy to the local semi-pro/Indy Ball/collegiate club. You could also just take a break. It’s your choice and yours alone.
Just one thing:
If you choose to walk away, but ultimately return, please don’t act like you never left. Nobody wants a bunch of fans imitating Homer Simpson when the Springfield Isotopes won their league title.
You can step away. Just like Motel 6, we’ll leave the light on for you. All that’s asked in return is honesty and acknowledgement.
And if you choose to ride the wave, I’m glad you’re here. I hope the journey will be glorious, but it could be painful. Nevertheless, it will be an experience.
Blue Jays ’till I die.
ER
Definitely Not JaysTalk 
lmao. You can understand this front office completely misread the market this off season hate what they have done, not subscribe or buy tickets until this team and mgmt prive they deserve it and still be a fan. The thing EVERY real fan should hate is when Jays Twitter people tell others how to fan.
Human nature and the allure/addiction of social media. Fortunately, you are in control of your own choices. Thank you for the comment.