TORONTO — As the Toronto Blue Jays prepare to host the New York Yankees in the first game of the American League Division Series on Saturday, local businesses and industry groups say they welcome the expected boost in tourism and consumer spending amid a tough year for the Canadian economy.

The first-ever playoff meeting between the two teams opens with games on Saturday and Sunday at Rogers Centre. The series is good news for restaurants, hotels and other businesses across the city, said Kelly Jackson, vice-president of destination development for Destination Toronto.

“When you go to a Jays game during the regular season, it’s not surprising to see fans there with flags from Newfoundland or homemade signs saying that they had come from the Prairies,” said Jackson.

“The excitement aroun

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