Blue Jays to host elite amateur tournament
The tournament will showcase the best college-eligible amateur baseball players in the country to professional scouts from all teams and educational institutions across North America.
The 12 teams will include three clubs from Ontario, two from British Columbia, Quebec and Alberta and one each from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Maritimes. The last squad will be the Blue Jays' scout team, including players from all provinces.
Each club, selected by the Blue Jays' scouting department, will feature 22 players and four coaches. While the players have no age restrictions, they must have college eligibility.
"The creation of Tournament 12 is a first for amateur baseball in Canada. It is an opportunity to showcase to both educational institutions and professional scouts the elite baseball talent that exists in our country," said Stephen Brooks, senior vice president of business operations. "If, through this tournament, the Blue Jays can provide the opportunity for Canada's best to further their education through baseball or pursue their professional aspirations, then the efforts of all involved have been well worth it."
Hall of Famer and former Blue Jay Roberto Alomar will serve as the honorary tournament commissioner.
"It's a tremendous honor to be associated with such an important event for amateur baseball in Canada," Alomar said. "This tournament will provide young Canadian players with an excellent opportunity to showcase their talents, and I'm very excited to be associated with such an important venture."
Interested managers and coaches can apply at bluejays.com/baseballacademy. Applications for players will be accepted in the new year once managerial and coaching staffs have been determined.