Exploring the archives of Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Expos stories often unearths captivating, long-forgotten photographs, visual snapshots that bring baseball history to life. This week’s deep dive into baseball lore revealed two such gems, each sparking intrigue and offering a unique perspective on baseball’s past.
The first, and perhaps most surprising, discovery features the familiar face of Tony Kubek, but in an unfamiliar context – proudly wearing a Toronto Blue Jays Uniform. For many fans, Tony Kubek is synonymous with his insightful commentary during Toronto Blue Jays TV broadcasts from 1977 to 1989. This makes the image of him sporting a Jays uniform particularly striking and unexpected. It raises questions: Was Kubek more involved with the Blue Jays than just broadcasting? Did he have a coaching role? Was seeing him in a Jays uniform a common sight during team practices in those early years? Driven by curiosity, a query was posted on Twitter, reaching out to the knowledgeable community of Blue Jays history enthusiasts.
Confirmation came swiftly from Paul Hodgson, a native of Marysville, N.B., and a notable figure as the second Canadian to don a Blue Jays jersey on the field. Hodgson, who played 20 games for the Blue Jays in 1980, responded, verifying that Kubek indeed participated in Blue Jays practices. This revelation provides a fascinating glimpse into Tony Kubek’s multifaceted relationship with the Toronto Blue Jays, extending beyond his well-known broadcasting career and into the team’s on-field activities.
The second intriguing find was a 1980 Topps Montreal Expos team card. While historically interesting, the primary focus remains on the unexpected image of Tony Kubek in a Jays uniform.
These rediscovered moments from baseball history underscore the enduring appeal of the sport and the captivating stories that can be unearthed from vintage photographs, offering fans a tangible connection to the game’s rich heritage.
