Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2008 | 2 a.m.
Did you know that the Toronto Blue Jays, the new major league parent club of the Las Vegas 51s, played their first game April 7, 1977? And that it snowed?
Even more unusual is that the Blue Jays won, something they would do only 53 more times in their inaugural season.
Other questions and answers about the 51s’ new partner from north of the border:
What longtime Las Vegas resident played a vital role in Toronto’s World Series championships in 1992 and ’93?
Duane Ward. Ward won two games in the 1992 World Series and saved an American League co-leading 45 games in 1993.
What made the Blue Jays’ 1996 season opener against the Oakland A’s unique?
It was the only opening-day game ever played at a minor league ballpark — and it happened right here at Cashman Field. The Jays beat the A’s 9-6 in front of 7,294 while the Oakland Coliseum was being renovated.
What Blue Jay hit the only walk-off home run to win a World Series with his team trailing entering its final at-bat?
Joe Carter (off Phillies closer Mitch Williams, in 1993).
What Blue Jays manager was fired for lying about his military service?
Tim Johnson, who, in an attempt to fire up his team, said he fought in Vietnam. Johnson also claimed he had been a star basketball player who was offered a scholarship to UCLA.
True or false, a couple of Blue Jays fans could be seen having sex in one of the hotel rooms that overlook the Rogers Centre playing field in Toronto?
True. It happened in 1997, and two other times. The ballpark was known as SkyDome then.
Who are the six Blue Jays who had their number retired?
Tony Fernandez (No. 1), George Bell (11), Roberto Alomar (12), Joe Carter (29), Dave Stieb (37) and Cito Gaston (43).
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