The Toronto Blue Jays have just rewritten the MLB record books, but this time it's not for home runs or strikeouts. During their recent three-game series against the New York Yankees, Blue Jays fans participated in a 50/50 draw that reached an astonishing $1,636,590 jackpot, making it the largest regular-season 50/50 draw in Major League Baseball history.
A Home Run for Charity
The record-breaking draw took place during Friday's series opener at Rogers Centre, where the energy was electric both on and off the field. The winning ticket holder walked away with an incredible $818,295, while an equal amount will support the Jays Care Foundation's charitable initiatives across Canada.
"This record-breaking 50/50 draw demonstrates the incredible generosity of Blue Jays fans," said Marnie Starkman, Executive Director of the Jays Care Foundation. "These funds will have a profound impact on children and youth across the country."
Building on Previous Success
This isn't the first time Blue Jays fans have shown their philanthropic spirit. The previous MLB record was also set at Rogers Centre during the 2023 home opener, and the all-time high for any MLB 50/50 draw reached an eye-watering $2.45 million during the 2016 postseason.
How the 50/50 Program Works
- Tickets are available both in-ballpark and online for fans across Ontario
- Half of the total pot goes to the lucky winner
- The other half supports the Jays Care Foundation's community programs
- Funds help provide sports opportunities for underserved youth
The foundation's initiatives focus on creating accessible baseball programs, improving community spaces, and supporting educational opportunities for young Canadians who face barriers to participation in sports.
More Than Just a Game
While the Blue Jays delivered an exciting 9-3 victory over the Yankees during the record-setting game, the real winner was charitable giving in Canada. This monumental 50/50 draw proves that Toronto baseball fans bring their A-game not just to cheering, but to making a meaningful difference in communities nationwide.
The success of this program continues to set new standards for sports-based philanthropy, showing that when it comes to supporting important causes, Blue Jays fans consistently hit it out of the park.
