are the blue jays playing tonight

Are the Blue Jays Playing Tonight? Here’s What We Know About Their World Series Run

As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for a critical moment in the 2025 MLB World Series, fans across Canada are asking one burning question: Are the Blue Jays playing tonight? With the series tied 2-2 and Game 5 unfolding in Los Angeles, the spotlight is on the team’s resilience—especially the potential return of star player George Springer, whose injury status has become a focal point of the Fall Classic.

This article breaks down the latest verified updates, explores the significance of the moment, and gives Canadian fans everything they need to know about the Blue Jays’ current World Series campaign.

Are the Blue Jays Playing Tonight? Game 5 Is Underway

Yes, the Blue Jays are playing tonight—Game 5 of the 2025 World Series is happening right now at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. The first pitch was at 5:00 PM PT (8:00 PM ET), with the Dodgers and Blue Jays locked in a 2-2 series tie. Every game now is a win-or-go-home scenario, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The matchup features a marquee pitching duel: Blake Snell for the Dodgers and Shane Bieber for the Blue Jays. Both starters are known for their command and ability to dominate under pressure. With momentum swinging back and forth, Game 5 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in what’s already been a thrilling series.

You can catch the game live on FOX in English and Fox Deportes in Spanish. Streaming options include MLB.TV, fuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV—perfect for fans watching from Vancouver, Calgary, or anywhere across Canada.

Recent Updates: George Springer’s Injury Status and Manager’s Crucial Comments

The biggest storyline heading into Game 5—and the looming Game 6—is the health of George Springer, the Blue Jays’ veteran outfielder and emotional leader. Springer has been sidelined since Game 3, when he strained muscles on his right side during a swing. His absence has left a noticeable gap in the lineup, especially in late-inning pressure situations.

Verified Injury Updates from Trusted Sources

According to CBC Sports and MLB.com, Springer’s return is now a real possibility. Manager John Schneider spoke to reporters on Thursday, offering a cautiously optimistic update:

“George was very close to playing in Game 5,” Schneider said. “He’s trending in the right direction. We’re hopeful he’ll be ready for Game 6.”

This statement, confirmed by both CBC and MLB.com, suggests Springer underwent aggressive treatment and rehab over the past 48 hours. While he did not play in Game 5, the fact that he was almost available signals a major step forward.

Yahoo Sports added another layer to the narrative, reporting that the Blue Jays made a subtle late-game decision in Game 4 that hinted at Springer’s condition. The team chose not to pinch-hit for a struggling batter in the 8th inning—a move some analysts saw as a sign Springer wasn’t ready to enter the game, even in a high-leverage spot.

Despite the setback, the organization remains hopeful. As MLB.com noted, the Blue Jays are “hopeful for Springer’s potential return in Game 6”, which is set for Friday, October 31, at 8:00 PM ET at Rogers Centre in Toronto.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters for Canadian Baseball

The Blue Jays are on the brink of making history. If they win Game 6, they’ll be one win away from their first World Series championship since 1993—a drought that has haunted Canadian fans for over three decades.

Since 1993, the Jays have made the playoffs only a handful of times, and never advanced beyond the ALCS. Now, in 2025, they’ve broken through with a balanced roster of young talent and veteran leadership. Springer, a two-time World Series champion with the Houston Astros, has been instrumental in guiding the team through high-pressure moments.

His potential return isn’t just about stats—it’s about presence. Springer’s ability to get on base, drive in runs, and ignite the dugout energy is irreplaceable. As one fan tweeted:

“No Springer = no spark. We need him back.”

And it’s not just about one player. The entire series has been a test of depth and resilience. The Blue Jays have leaned on their bullpen, rookies, and bench players to stay competitive. But in a winner-take-all environment, having your best players available—especially one with Springer’s postseason pedigree—can be the difference between a parade and a plane ride home.

Context: The Blue Jays’ Road to the World Series

To understand the magnitude of this moment, it helps to look back.

The 2025 Blue Jays weren’t the preseason favorites. They finished the regular season with a solid but unspectacular 92-70 record, earning a Wild Card spot. But in the postseason, they’ve been a different team:

• Wild Card Series: Swept the Tampa Bay Rays in two games.
• ALDS: Defeated the Houston Astros in four games—Springer’s former team.
• ALCS: Overcame the New York Yankees in six games, including a dramatic Game 6 walk-off homer.

Their journey has been defined by clutch performances, pitching depth, and emotional resilience. Now, they’re facing the Dodgers—a powerhouse with a $300M+ payroll, MVP candidates, and a roster stacked with All-Stars.

Yet, the series is tied. That’s a testament to the Blue Jays’ ability to compete with elite competition, even without their full roster.

Historically, Canadian teams in the World Series have faced an uphill battle. The Blue Jays are the only Canadian team to win a World Series—and they did it twice, in 1992 and 1993. Since then, no other Canadian team (including the Expos before their move) has come close.

This 2025 run has reignited national pride. From coast to coast, Canadians are tuning in, wearing jerseys, and hosting watch parties. The Blue Jays aren’t just a Toronto team anymore—they’re Canada’s team.

Where to Watch: Fan Events and Viewing Options Across Canada

With Game 6 returning to Toronto, the city is preparing for a massive celebration—win or lose.

The City of Toronto is hosting a free public watch party at Nathan Phillips Square (100 Queen St. W) for each home game in the World Series. The event kicks off at 8:00 PM ET and features:

• Live DJ sets
• Blue Jays trivia (with prizes)
• Giant screens
• Food trucks and fan zones

It’s a family-friendly environment, and it’s become a must-attend event for fans who can’t score tickets to the sold-out Rogers Centre.

For those watching from home, here’s how to tune in:

For fans in Western Canada, games start at 5:00 PM PT, making it perfect for after-work viewing. In the Maritimes, it’s 9:00 PM AT—late, but worth it for a potential championship moment.

Immediate Effects: What This Means for the Team and the Country

The impact of this World Series run extends far beyond wins and losses.

Economic Boost

• Local businesses in Toronto are reporting 20–30% increases in sales during game days.
• Merchandise sales have skyrock