Title: Blue Jays Seek Playoff Push as They Face Orioles in Crucial Series
The Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a tight race for the American League’s final wild card spot, just one game behind the Seattle Mariners. With the postseason within reach, the Blue Jays aim to make a comeback against the Baltimore Orioles, despite their struggles against the team this season, having lost eight out of ten matchups.
Although the Blue Jays boast a talented core, their recent postseason success has been limited, with only two appearances in the last six years and no playoff wins. However, the return of star player Bo Bichette to the lineup is expected to provide a much-needed boost. Bichette has proven to be the Blue Jays’ most valuable asset this year.
The Blue Jays have made some significant roster moves recently. They activated Kevin Kiermaier and Trevor Richards, adding depth and experience to their lineup. On the other hand, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is battling a finger injury, which may pose a challenge for the team.
Celebrating their first series win in over a month against the Cincinnati Reds last weekend, the Blue Jays are determined to carry the momentum forward in their upcoming series against the Orioles.
The opening game of the series will showcase Grayson Rodriguez on the mound for the Orioles and Yusei Kikuchi for the Blue Jays. Rodriguez has made a remarkable impression since his debut, boasting a 3.03 ERA in six starts. Kikuchi, meanwhile, has been stellar in his past six starts, allowing only five earned runs in 35 innings.
The second game will feature the Orioles’ Jack Flaherty against the Blue Jays’ Kevin Gausman. While Flaherty had an impressive start with the Orioles, he has struggled in his recent outings. Gausman, on the other hand, faces a challenge against his former team, with a 5.06 ERA in four starts against the Orioles.
Turning attention to the third and final game of the series, Dean Kremer will take the mound for the Orioles, opposing José Berríos for the Blue Jays. Kremer has displayed a solid performance since July, boasting a 3.45 ERA. Moreover, he has had success against the Blue Jays this season. Berríos, known for his impressive outings since May, had a shutout performance against the Orioles in his only start against them this season. However, some suggest that his success may be influenced by luck, examining his FIP.
With the Blue Jays aiming to leapfrog the Orioles in the standings, their upcoming series against Baltimore is crucial for their playoff hopes. The team’s talented core, coupled with strategic additions and the return of key players, will play a vital role in determining their success. As the Blue Jays continue their quest for a playoff spot, fans eagerly anticipate the high-stakes battles that lie ahead.
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