Lethbridge businesses busy ahead of Blue Jays’ World Series appearance

As Blue Jays fever sweeps wide, fans in Lethbridge are gearing up to watch the team chase its first World Series title in more than 30 years.

Blue Jays fever is sweeping across the country.

Fans in Lethbridge are gearing up to watch the Jays go for their first World Series title in more than 30 years.

Doug’s Sports carries a selection of apparel from teams ranging from local to major professional teams, but you won’t find a Blue Jays hat, jersey or shirt.

Doug’s Sports has been sold out since the American League Division Series.

“Wish we had lots, but it’s too late now. But go Jays—we’re just excited for them. … We would’ve sold a ton if we would’ve had to have it in stock,” said JD Clark, assistant manager of Doug’s Sports.

The only Jays merchandise of any kind available at Doug’s is a pair of foam Blue Jays bats.

It’s a similar story around town.

Customers coming in say just about every other jersey and sports store is sold out of Blue Jays apparel.

“We had two guys come in yesterday looking for Jays stuff. We said we’re out, sorry. He says, ‘You guys are out? Everyone else is, too,’’’ said Clark.

Bars and restaurants like Hudson’s are seeing a rush of baseball fans on game days.

Things have only gotten busier as the Blue Jays advance further in the post-season.

“There’s a lot of excitement around it. People are coming out to watch in big groups. Lots of groups of two or three, families coming out or groups of 10, 12 friends. There’s a lot of energy in the rooms. Even on Mondays and Tuesdays, we’re seeing 40, 50 people come out for the game,” said Jesse Dixon, Hudson’s Lethbridge general manager.

The game days may be busy, but staff have been enjoying the experience.

They can feel the energy and know they’re watching history.

“Usually, baseball on TV can be a little bit boring with the sound, but we’ve had sound on for every game, and they’ve just been electric. And the games are so exciting that the sound on is adding to the room, and people are really getting into it. And we got the sirens going when they score a run,” said Dixon.

Game 1 of the World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers starts Friday at 6 p.m.