Before both games, the New York Yankees lost to the Blue Jays over the weekend, nearly 45,000 Toronto fans stood silent for “The Star-Spangled Banner,” then applauded as the anthem ended. Later, chants against the Yankees began after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a grand slam, giving Toronto a 9-0 lead. The respect shown for the anthem contrasted with earlier this year, when many Canadians booed it in response to President Trump’s tariff threats and talk of making Canada a U.S. state.
The Blue Jays’ playoff run comes as U.S.-Canada political tensions are high, with Prime Minister Mark Carney set to meet President Trump again to seek relief from tariffs. The series has become a symbol of national pride for many Canadians. As the Blue Jays prepare for Game 3 in New York, the games are viewed as more than a sports rivalry, reflecting the current relationship between the two countries.
The Blue Jays’ playoff run comes as U.S.-Canada political tensions are high, with Prime Minister Mark Carney set to meet President Trump again to seek relief from tariffs. The series has become a symbol of national pride for many Canadians. As the Blue Jays prepare for Game 3 in New York, the games are viewed as more than a sports rivalry, reflecting the current relationship between the two countries.
