Former Toronto Blue Jays slugger Jose Bautista helped unveil an upgraded teen lounge at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto on Friday.
The project was a collaboration with the Jays Care Foundation, which donated $120,000 in 2023 to honor Bautista after his retirement from Major League Baseball.
The newly renovated space features Blue Jays and Bautista-themed decor, offering inpatient clients a place to socialize and connect during recovery.
During the opening, three patients joined the six-time All-Star for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Bautista placed the first autographed baseball into a new display case.
"It's my pleasure to figure out different ways to continue to give back," Bautista said.
The former home run champion noted that athletes often overlook their platform to create positive change in the community.
"So, I take that very much to heart, and any way that I can give back to the community, I'm always going to try to do that," he added.
Since retiring, Bautista has remained active with the franchise, assisting with the 2024 City Connect jersey launch and mentoring minor league players.
"Anytime that I can come back and figure out ways to give back has been one of my priorities," he said.
He expressed gratitude for the support he received from Toronto fans during his playing career.
"I got a lot [from the city] when I was playing here, and I have to figure out different ways to give it back," Bautista said.
Team officials emphasized the importance of former franchise leaders staying involved in humanitarian efforts.
"I think José always wanted to be involved in the community," said Marnie Starkman, Blue Jays executive vice president of business operations.
"When we have players like José, who feel it's important to be involved, we embrace that," Starkman added.
She highlighted Bautista's commitment to the organization.
"José has done such a tremendous job of being clear with us that he's a Blue Jay through and through, and that's important for his legacy and important for us as a team."
The hospital ceremony kicked off a weekend celebration at Rogers Centre, where the Blue Jays scheduled a dual bobblehead giveaway featuring Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion.
