There has never been a better day to jump on the Blue Jays bandwagon as they face the do-or-die Game 5 against the Texas Rangers at the Rogers Centre this afternoon.

Whether you are watching the game at the stadium, at a bar or even at home with friends, here is a quick cheat sheet that will help you follow along and make it seem like you know what you’re talking about.

Baseball basics:

  • Run: Be sure not to say the Blue Jays “scored a goal or a point” when the runner crosses home plate. This is baseball, not hockey… players score “runs.”
  • National League vs. American League: All you need to know is that Texas and the Blue Jays both play in the American League. Worry about the other league when we make it to the World Series.

Main players:

  • Marcus Stroman: This 24-year-old is the starting pitcher for the Blue Jays this afternoon and fans have high hopes for his performance.
  • Josh Donaldson (also known as @BringerOfRain20): When you hear the crowd chant “MVP,” they are cheering for Donaldson, the Jays’ star third baseman.
  • Edwin Encarnacion: Is a designated hitter for the team who is certainly no stranger to hitting home runs.
  • Jose Bautista: A beloved veteran of the Blue Jays who plays right field and hits the baseball like it’s nobody’s business.
  • Troy Tulowitzki: One of the best short stops in the league who just happens to play for the Toronto Blue Jays.
  • Cole Hamels: This is the ace pitcher for Texas who will be starting in today’s game.
  • John Gibbons (or Gibby): The guy who is usually scowling in the Blue Jays dugout. He is the team manager who makes the big decisions.

Fan etiquette: 

  • Loud fans: If you are one of the lucky ones who scored a ticket to the game, you will likely have to tolerate some loud fans who think their heckling actually has an impact on players of the opposing team. Try to grin and bear it… It’s Game 5! 
  • Get there early: Whether you are watching at the bar or at the stadium, this is the biggest Blue Jays game of the season so get to where you are going early so you don’t miss any of the action.
  • Feel free to join in with chants: Popular ones include, “Let’s go Blue Jays, Let’s Go,” and of course, the simple yet effective, “Jose, Jose, Jose, Jose… Jose… Jose.”

Lucky ticket-holders should remember:

  • When buying beer: Vendors stop selling beer after the 7th inning so if you think it is going in to extra innings, be sure to stock up then. Also, having cash is always a handy so you can buy a beer at your seat.
  • Keep the wave to a minimum: Once around is cool, but let’s not overdo it.
  • Take transit or walk: Traffic around the Rogers Centre (and around the city for that matter) is bound to be pretty crazy plus parking is expensive. Save yourself the headache and find another way to get downtown.