As the Toronto Blue Jays prepare for their first playoff run in 22 years, the city is getting ready for an increase in traffic during the game.

The Jays are hosting the American League West Champions the Texas Rangers on Thursday and Friday afternoons.

With fans expected to pour into the heart of the city, Toronto police are planning a series of road closures to help ease pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

On home game days, the following roads will be closed until the end of the evening:

  • Southbound Blue Jays Way, from Front Street to Navy Wharf Court
  • Eastbound Bremner Boulevard, from Spadina Avenue to Lower Simcoe Street
  • Westbound Bremner Boulevard, from Lower Simcoe to Navy Wharf

Police warned that drivers should expect delays during the closures.

Those planning to take TTC may have an easier time getting around the city, with an increase in subway trains before and after home games.

The TTC will also have ambassadors in Union, St. Andrew and Spadina Stations to help customers get around.

Officials recommend taking Line 1 to Union or St. Andrew, or the 510 Spadina streetcar to Front Street.

Game to be screened free downtown

Jays fans who weren't able to get tickets can still take in the game surrounded by fellow supporters.

The City of Toronto will broadcast the upcoming games on a large screen in Nathan Phillips Square, in front of City Hall, as the team takes on the Texas Rangers.

Hundreds of Jays fans are expected to pack the square, which has been nicknamed the "#BirdsNest" on social media.

Food trucks will surround the square to provide a "stadium-like experience," the city said in a statement.

"It's an exciting time for Toronto," Toronto Mayor John Tory said.

"Let's come together and cheer on our Blue Jays at Nathan Phillips Square. See you in the #BirdsNest!"