Series Preview: Toronto Blue Jays at Boston Red Sox

Aug 15, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox third baseman Will Middlebrooks (16) breaks up the double play attempt from Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Jose Reyes (7) during the fourth inning at the Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Here is your abbreviated series preview before the Toronto Blue Jays upcoming weekend series with the Boston Red Sox.

Game 1 – 7:00 PM (SNET)

Esmil Rogers (5-7, 4.47 ERA) vs. Jon Lester (14-8, 3.75 ERA)

Rogers is trying to show he belongs in the Blue Jays rotation next year. I don’t think Alex Anthopoulos is sold. The starting lineups have been posted for game one so I might as well take advantage.

Game 2 – 7:00 PM (SNET)

Mark Buehrle (11-9, 4.17 ERA) vs. Clay Buchholz (11-0, 1.51 ERA)

Buchholz has returned from injury to post two consecutive solid starts. He has yet to allow a run in 11 innings. If he’s in shape for the playoff it’s a huge boost for the Red Sox.

Game 3 – 1:30 PM (SNET-1)

R.A. Dickey vs. Felix Doubront

I’m assuming the Red Sox will have clinched the division by this point. If they haven’t, it’s a victory for the Jays.

News and notes

The Red Sox can clinch the American League division crown with a victory over the Blue Jays tonight…. Rogers has put up a 0.75 ERA against the Red Sox in two starts (ESPN)… Mark Buehrle has a career 5.12 ERA at Fenway (Toronto Star)… Koji Uehara has allowed only 11 hits, two walks and two earned runs in 39.2 innings since taking over the closer’s role for Boston (Toronto Star).