Breaking News: Blue Jays Fans Rally Behind Return of Beloved ‘Home Plate Lady’ at Rogers Centre…..
Toronto, June 29, 2025 — In a heartwarming twist that blends nostalgia with community spirit, Blue Jays fans are rallying for the return of one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the team’s recent history — the ‘Home Plate Lady.’ After a noticeable absence during recent home games at the Rogers Centre, longtime fans have taken to social media, local news outlets, and even started a petition to bring back the woman who became a symbol of Blue Jays fandom.
The ‘Home Plate Lady’ — whose real name is Linda Ruth Simmons, a 76-year-old retired schoolteacher from Mississauga — earned her nickname for her unwavering presence behind home plate during nearly every Blue Jays home game since the early 2000s. Dressed in her signature bright blue outfit and armed with an infectious smile and unmatched enthusiasm, Simmons became a fixture on game broadcasts and a source of comfort and joy for fans across the country.
A Fixture in the Stands
For over two decades, Simmons held season tickets in the premium seating area directly behind home plate. Rain or shine, win or lose, she could be seen on camera — often clapping, standing for big moments, and mouthing words of encouragement to players. Her energy seemed inexhaustible, and many players even acknowledged her presence as a motivator.
“She was like a good luck charm for us,” said former Blue Jays catcher Russell Martin in a 2022 interview. “You’d look back and see her there cheering her heart out, no matter what the score was. That kind of support meant something.”
The Sudden Absence
When Simmons was no longer seen in her usual seat during the early months of the 2025 season, fans quickly took notice. Speculation circulated on forums like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), with many concerned about her health or wondering if she had been priced out of her long-held seat amid stadium renovations and rising ticket costs.
The Blue Jays organization remained silent on the matter until this past week, when a fan-led online campaign, #BringBackHomePlateLady, began trending nationally. A Change.org petition gathered over 45,000 signatures in just three days, and fan-made posters began appearing at the Rogers Centre asking, “Where is Home Plate Lady?”
A Heartfelt Response
On Friday, Simmons herself released a video statement from her home in Mississauga, thanking fans for their concern and revealing the reason behind her absence.
“I’ve been dealing with a few health issues and some mobility challenges that made it hard to attend games this season,” Simmons explained. “But I never imagined how much people noticed or cared. Your love and support have lifted my spirits more than you can know.”
She added, with a smile, “If all goes well, I hope to be back in my seat before the season ends.”
The video prompted an outpouring of love, with thousands of fans sending messages of encouragement. Some even offered to fund transportation and accessibility accommodations to ensure Simmons could safely return to her iconic seat.
The Blue Jays Respond
In a touching move, the Toronto Blue Jays organization released a statement late Saturday night confirming they are working directly with Simmons and her family to ensure she can attend games comfortably.
“We are inspired by the passion of our fans and the impact individuals like Linda Simmons have on our ballpark community,” said the statement. “The Rogers Centre is not just a stadium — it’s home to memories, traditions, and people who make it special. We are doing everything we can to welcome Linda back in a safe and supportive way.”
Additionally, the team announced plans to honor Simmons during a future home game, with a special tribute and fan appreciation segment in the works.
A Community’s Symbol
For many fans, Simmons is more than just a familiar face. She represents the loyal, multi-generational spirit of Blue Jays fandom. From grandparents to children, many have grown up watching games with Simmons subtly part of the experience — like a comforting friend you’ve never met but always noticed.
“I can’t even count the number of games where seeing her clapping behind home plate made me feel hopeful, even when we were losing,” said longtime fan Carlos Nguyen. “She’s part of the heart of this team.”
As the Blue Jays continue their 2025 playoff push, the return of the ‘Home Plate Lady’ may bring more than just sentimental value — it might just bring the luck and energy the team needs to go the distance.
And for a city that cherishes its heroes, Linda Simmons is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful figures in sports don’t wear jerseys — they wear a smile, sit in the stands, and never stop believing.