Toronto Blue Jays look to rebound in Boston

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Apr 25, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons (5) in the dugout during the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Griffith-USA TODAY Sports

Series Prediction: 2-1 Blue Jays

With the current state of these two teams, this series could tip into a sweep from either side without much surprise. Let’s give the Blue Jays the edge here, though, and it begins with the hope that Aaron Sanchez attacks the strike zone in game one.

Whether it comes from Jose Bautista, Russell Martin or John Gibbons himself, someone on the Blue Jays needs to assure the young pitcher that his stuff is not just MLB quality, it’s dominant. A confident Sanchez should be able to dominate the strike zone just like he did from his 2014 bullpen role.

I like the ascending Drew Hutchison in game two, as well, especially if he can continue to lean on his great fastball. After making some minor adjustments heading into his last start, everything seemed to click. There’s now no need for further tinkering, and Hutchison can focus on pounding the zone early and often.

Game three is where I could see problems for the Blue Jays, especially if R.A. Dickey falls into another one of his “off” nights. The short fence in right and Green Monster in left don’t bode well for hanging knuckleballs. If the Blue Jays can head to Cleveland with a .500 record, it’s mission accomplished.

Next: Blue Jays poll: How would you address the bullpen?

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