Jays Fans Boo Ohtani, Chant ‘We Don’t Need You’ in Game 1

UPDATE: Toronto Blue Jays fans unleashed their displeasure at Shohei Ohtani during Game 1 of the 2025 World Series, chanting “We don’t need you!” in a direct response to his decision to sign a staggering $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The incident unfolded last night at Rogers Centre, where the atmosphere was charged with tension and rivalry.

Before the game, Ohtani, who had met with Blue Jays officials on December 4, 2023, at the team’s spring training complex in Dunedin, Florida, was met with loud boos during player introductions. Fans made their sentiments clear as they directed chants of disapproval right at the two-way star. This reaction stemmed from his choice to join the Dodgers instead of Toronto, a decision that remains a sore spot for many fans.

Toronto manager John Schneider humorously remarked on the situation, saying he wanted Ohtani to return a Blue Jays hat and jacket for his dog, Decoy, which he took after their meeting. However, the fans were less forgiving, expressing their feelings through chants and boos aimed at Ohtani throughout the game.

As the game progressed, Ohtani faced the ultimate test during the ninth inning, where fans intensified their chants. After a walk, he narrowly avoided being picked off by left-hander Eric Lauer, leading to a tense moment that underscored the charged atmosphere. Ultimately, Ohtani was left stranded as the Blue Jays secured a decisive 11-4 victory.

“Don’t poke the bear,”

warned Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassitt about the chants directed at Ohtani. In contrast, Toronto third baseman Ernie Clement expressed that the banter was all in good fun, stating,

“I couldn’t help but laugh. We have the guys we have, and the guys we have have done a hell of a job. I don’t think we need any more of what we have right now.”

Blue Jays star George Springer also weighed in, acknowledging the chants: “At the end of the day, Shohei Ohtani is an unbelievable baseball player. Any team that he would be on, it would be awesome. But he’s over there and not here.” Springer emphasized the respect for Ohtani’s talent, saying, “He’s one of the best baseball players ever, and he’s got 15 years to go.”

Ohtani, however, reminded Toronto fans of what they missed. In a dramatic display, he hit a soaring two-run homer off Braydon Fisher in the seventh inning, even as the Dodgers trailed 11-2. This was his fourth home run in just two games, underlining his exceptional skills as he had already struck out 10 batters in his previous outing to clinch the Dodgers’ spot in the World Series.

This game’s emotional highs and lows reflect the fierce competition and personal stakes involved, making the ongoing World Series not only about the championship but also about the unresolved tensions between teams and players. As the series continues, fans and players alike will be watching closely for more fireworks on the field.

With the Blue Jays setting the tone early in this World Series matchup, the stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying series. Fans are eager to see how Ohtani will respond in the coming games as the rivalry intensifies.