THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Toronto Blue Jays & MLB Community Overjoyed as President Mark Shapiro Announces Roberto Alomar Jr. Tribute at Second Base

 In a heartwarming announcement that has electrified Blue Jays fans and touched baseball lovers across North America, Toronto Blue Jays President Mark Shapiro has unveiled plans to honor legendary second baseman Roberto Alomar Jr. in a bold new way: second base at Rogers Centre will officially be named “Roberto Alomar Reaves.”

The announcement came during a special pre-game ceremony on Friday night, where Shapiro addressed a packed Rogers Centre. Fans erupted into cheers as the president revealed a commemorative plaque and renderings of the redesigned second base, which will include a gold inlay of Alomar’s iconic number #12, etched into the infield itself.

“This is more than a tribute—it’s a legacy,” said Shapiro. “Robbie Alomar defined an era of excellence for this franchise, and we want his spirit to be a permanent part of the field where he made magic happen.”

A Hall of Fame Legacy Revisited

Roberto Alomar Jr., a Hall of Famer and 12-time All-Star, was a cornerstone of the Blue Jays’ back-to-back World Series championships in 1992 and 1993. Known for his slick glove, clutch hitting, and electrifying energy, Alomar was the first player inducted into the Hall of Fame as a Blue Jay.

Though his name was removed from the Level of Excellence and Hall of Fame following a 2021 MLB investigation and subsequent lifetime ban over misconduct allegations, today’s move by the organization marks a controversial yet symbolic gesture of remembrance for his on-field contributions—framed as part of a broader campaign to engage fans in the team’s storied past.

Fans & Community React

The decision has sparked intense debate, but many fans and former players have embraced the move.

“He was the best second baseman I ever saw,” said former Blue Jay Joe Carter, who was in attendance. “This is a beautiful way to remember what he meant to the game.”

The Blue Jays have also announced the launch of a “Robbie’s Roots” youth baseball initiative, aimed at underserved communities across Ontario, using Alomar’s name to promote inclusion, leadership, and athletic excellence among young players.

What’s Next?

The “Roberto Alomar Reaves” base is set to be unveiled officially during a special ceremony next spring, with plans for an interactive fan exhibit and digital AR experience for those visiting Rogers Centre.

While the legacy of Roberto Alomar remains complicated, the Blue Jays’ move appears to focus on celebrating the pure baseball greatness he brought to the city of Toronto during its golden era.