Shane Told Talks Blue Jays Baseball & Silverstein’s 25-Year Legacy

For Shane Told, lead singer of the band Silverstein, baseball isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifelong passion. From childhood memories of Dave Stieb’s near-no-hitters to analyzing the current state of the Toronto Blue Jays, Told remains a devoted fan who has followed the team through decades of triumphs and heartbreaks.

In an exclusive interview on Jay Bird Watching Podcast, Shane shared his deep connection to Blue Jays baseball, thoughts on the team’s struggles in 2025, and how the sport continues to be a grounding force in his life—even while touring the world with Silverstein.

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Growing Up a Blue Jays Fan & Early Baseball Memories

Shane Told’s love for the Blue Jays started early. Born in 1981, he vividly recalls watching the team’s dominant 1985 season (the Drive FOR '85) and even attending a game at Exhibition Stadium before SkyDome (now Rogers Centre) opened in 1989.

“My childhood was baseball—it was always on TV,” Shane said. “I still talk to my dad about the Blue Jays every time we’re on the phone.”

He reminisced about attending the SkyDome grand opening, hosted by Alan Thicke, where fans got soaked by rain after demanding that the roof be opened for the occasion.

Las Vegas Baseball & The Oakland A’s Move

Now based in Las Vegas, Shane has had to adjust to watching Blue Jays games at 4 PM instead of prime-time evening slots. As the Oakland A’s prepare to move to Vegas, he’s excited about having MLB games just minutes from his home. We all wondered if there would be a similar buzz eventually to match what the Golden Knights brought to Vegas!

As for Jays fans in Vegas, “There are actually a surprising number of Blue Jays fans here—a lot of Canadians living in Vegas,” he said. “Most people here root for the Dodgers or Giants, but I still see Jays hats around town.”

Baseball Movies & The Magic of ‘The Natural’

When asked about his favorite baseball movie, Shane didn’t hesitate:

“The Natural is the best. It captures the magic of baseball better than any other movie. The sport just translates to film so well—it has moments of suspense, personality, and life lessons that other sports movies just don’t.”

What a great baseball movie!

Blue Jays Favorites: Dave Stieb & Joe Carter

Shane's favorite player of all time? Dave Stieb, the Blue Jays’ ace throughout the 1980s, and one of the most underrated pitchers in MLB history. “I was actually at one of the games where he lost a no-hitter in the ninth,” Shane recalled. “I remember Roberto Kelly breaking it up—I was just a kid, but I knew how devastating it was.”

He also shared a memorable encounter with Joe Carter in downtown Toronto, years after Carter’s legendary walk-off home run in the 1993 World Series. “He just ran past me on Spadina, smiled, and got into a car. It was like seeing a legend in the wild,” Shane said. Who would not fan out some from seeing a baseball icon like Joe Carter.

Frustration Over Blue Jays Inconsistency

While Shane Told remains a die-hard fan, he admitted that watching the 2025 Blue Jays has been exhausting.

“They get swept, then they sweep. They lose close games, then blow teams out—it’s so frustrating because on paper, this team should be good,” he said.

Shane believes the front office may need a shake-up, adding that fans deserve more accountability for nearly a decade without a playoff win.

Trade Deadline Speculation: Bo Bichette’s Future

With Bo Bichette’s contract situation uncertain, Shane weighed in on whether the Blue Jays should trade their star shortstop before the deadline.

“Bo is the biggest trade chip they have, and I don’t think he has any intention of staying,” he said. “If they can get impact prospects and MLB-ready talent, they should move him while they still can.”

Fans have speculated that the Dodgers or Padres could be landing spots for Bichette, especially if the Dodgers are looking to move Mookie Betts back to the outfield.

Silverstein’s 25th Anniversary & New Music

Beyond baseball, Shane has been busy celebrating Silverstein’s 25th anniversary, touring and releasing new music throughout 2025.

“We’ve already done three major tours this year, and we just released a new song, ‘Negative Space,’ which has a fun detective-style music video,” Shane said.

Silverstein has another album dropping in September, with additional singles releasing throughout the year. Fans can also expect upcoming Canadian tour dates, which will be announced soon.

For Shane Told, baseball and music have always gone hand in hand. Whether he’s on tour, watching the Blue Jays, or writing music, both passions remain central to his life.

As Silverstein’s 25th anniversary celebrations continue, fans can look forward to new music, tour dates, and more baseball conversations with Shane , who will always be a Blue Jays fan first—even when the team leaves him frustrated. Enjoy the new single "Negative Space" and see https://silversteinmusic.com/ for tour and new music updates.

Make sure you check out the entire interview with Shane Told of Silverstein right here and make sure you stay tuned for more excellent guests and fun right here on the Jay Bird Watching Podcast. https://www.youtube.com/live/dM-ZKij0k-8?si=8T9O96upBGJP65zN