Toronto Blue Jays look to rebound in Boston

Apr 21, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) hits a double to drive in a run against the Baltimore Orioles in the second inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Player to watch: Josh Donaldson

Just when we thought it was impossible to swing a hotter bat than Devon Travis, in steps Josh Donaldson.  Donaldson has settled in beautifully to the number two spot in the order, and after Jose Reyes begins the game with his traditional 1-pitch at-bat, Donaldson’s presence brings power the plate quickly.

We’ve discussed several times that Russell Martin may not be the long-term answer at number two, suggesting at different points over the last month that one of Donaldson, Devon Travis, Dalton Pompey or Michael Saunders could succeed there.  Injury and performance have narrowed the field, but so far, Donaldson has starred.

Donaldson holds a career slash line of .412 / .577 / .588 at Fenway Park across 26 plate appearances.  Although it’s a terribly small sample size, which are only fun to use when they look good, I like the way that Fenway sets up for Donaldson.  If he can continue to stay ahead of pitchers, especially Buccholz and Porcello who throw much softer than Kelly, the Green Monster could own some new dents by Thursday.

Next: Series Prediction: Can the Jays return to .500?