Just now:Toronto Blue Jays Fans Call for the Return of Beloved “Home Plate Lady……
Toronto Blue Jays fans are rallying behind a nostalgic yet heartfelt cause: the return of the iconic “Home Plate Lady” to her cherished seat behind home plate at Rogers Centre. Social media has lit up in recent weeks with fans expressing their love and longing for the ever-enthusiastic superfan, whose passionate presence behind the plate became a fixture for thousands watching Blue Jays games at home or in the ballpark.
For years, the Home Plate Lady — real name Mary Valenti — was instantly recognizable. With her expressive reactions, vibrant outfits, and unwavering loyalty, she captured the hearts of fans and became something of a cult figure among Blue Jays faithful. Positioned prominently behind home plate, her every cheer, gasp, or frustrated sigh was visible on television broadcasts, making her an unofficial part of the game experience.
But this season, she’s been noticeably absent.
“I was watching the season opener and right away I said, ‘Where is she?’” said long-time Jays fan and season ticket holder Grant McAllister. “It just doesn’t feel the same without her energy in the shot. She was like our own 10th man.”
Valenti, who reportedly attended games religiously for over a decade, had become as symbolic to some fans as the team’s mascot Ace or even longtime broadcaster Buck Martinez. While not affiliated with the organization officially, her devotion spoke volumes. Known to arrive early and stay late, her loyalty never wavered, whether the Jays were soaring through a playoff run or enduring a rough losing streak.
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have seen a rise in posts bearing hashtags like #BringBackHomePlateLady and #WeMissYouMary. Several fan pages have shared old clips and screenshots of her mid-cheer, celebrating the energy she brought to the fanbase.
“She’s part of our team spirit,” said Dana Morris, a Blue Jays fan from Mississauga. “When we talk about what makes going to a Jays game special, it’s the fans, the dome, the energy — and yeah, people like her. It’s like the wave doesn’t start without her.”
While no official statement has been released by Valenti herself, speculation has swirled online regarding her absence. Some fans believe she may have chosen to take a break due to health or personal reasons, while others hope the Blue Jays organization will reach out and formally honor her contributions to the club’s unique culture.
In fact, several fans have suggested a “Home Plate Lady Appreciation Night,” with calls for the club to offer her a ceremonial first pitch or honorary jersey. An online petition, launched just days ago, has already garnered thousands of signatures asking the team to recognize her longstanding presence.
In an era where superfans often become part of a team’s identity — from “The 7th Inning Stretch Grandma” in Chicago to “The Dancing Umpire” in the minors — Mary Valenti’s absence is felt in more ways than one. Her charisma and passion were infectious, helping to personify the spirit of Blue Jays Nation.
Whether or not Valenti returns to her legendary seat this season remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: her presence is deeply missed. In a sport that thrives on tradition, community, and loyalty, she reminded everyone that sometimes the fans in the seats are just as much a part of the story as the players on the field.
Until she returns, every time the camera pans to that now-empty seat behind home plate, fans across the country will be asking the same question: “Where’s our Home Plate Lady?
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