It's a wonder I'm still employed at Rogers Sportsnet, considering my first meeting with Ted Rogers. Beset by both intimidation and wonder, I approached him - arm outstretched - with one image in mind, that of a communications giant who happens to own a baseball team. My greeting went this way:
"Pleased to meet you Mr. Turner."
Thankfully, he thought the error amusing.
Ted Rogers, who passed away Tuesday, was the type of owner a hometown fan could easily appreciate. He was the anti-Steinbrenner, choosing to remain in the background where baseball matters were concerned. This may have been more out of necessity then design. When I was assigned to interview Mr. Rogers at a Blue Jays' game shortly after he bought the team, I asked outgoing president Paul Godfrey for advice on a line of questions.
"Ask him about anything," suggested Godfrey. "Except baseball."
Rogers' purchase of the Blue Jays accomplished a few things. It put a face to ownership, an aspect that was non-existent during the Interbrew years. And it may have saved Major League Baseball in Toronto. The club's foundation seemed shaky at the turn of the century. Though Mr. Rogers had opportunity on his mind, those who knew him well will tell you he could simply not envision Toronto without the Blue Jays.
In time, though the dollar was as weak as it is now and crowds had fallen dramatically from the gravy days of the early nineties, Mr. Rogers put no restrictions on offers to expensive free agents like B.J. Ryan or A.J. Burnett. And when it was suggested Roy Halladay get a fair-market (at the time) extension, Mr. Rogers was in agreement. He was present at many of the press conferences introducing new players in the off-season. In season, he'd make the odd appearance in the first-row seats. Beyond that, his style seemed to indicate he'd rather get out of the way and let his hires do their work.
So, thank you Ted Rogers. Thanks for your commitment to the Blue Jays. Who knows where the club would be without you.
