Toronto Blue Jays: the biggest games of the 2016 season

The Blue Jays play ball today in Tampa, but Toronto fans will have to wait until Friday for the team to play its home opener.

The Jays made the playoffs for the first time in over a decade last season before losing to the Kansas City Royals in the American League Championship series.

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Fanshave high hopes for this year's team, as well, which features the same powerful lineup and an exciting young pitching staff.

Here are five of the biggest home games and series coming up for the Blue Jays this summer.

Home opener April 8

The Rogers Centre will be packed and roaring on Friday when the Blue Jays take on the Boston Red Sox.

The home opener, usually one of the rowdiest games of the season, may be extra spicy as David Price returns to Toronto for the first time since being acquired by the rival Sox in the offseason.

Return of the Texans May 2-4

Jose Bautista's glorious home run (and famous bat flip) effectively ended the Rangers season last year. Expect the Rangers to arrive in Toronto looking for revenge.

Battle for the crown July 4-6

The Blue Jays will get their first shot at retribution when they take on the Kansas City Royals at home.

There was plenty of bad blood between these two excellent teams last season, so expect some exciting games.

Trade time July 31

Jays fans were delighted at the last trade deadline as their team went out and acquired big names like Price and Troy Tulowitzki.

Will the team be making more moves at this year's deadline?

American League East fight Various dates, September

The Jays will need a strong September if they're going to win the American League East for the second straight year. The Jays will play 13 home games against divisional rivals.