Toronto Blue Jays series preview: Home for rivalry week

Apr 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Jose Bautista (19) hits an RBI single during the fifth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Toronto Blue Jays return home to the Rogers Centre on Monday to face the New York Yankees in a three game set.  After another punch-to-the-gut loss to split their series against the Cleveland Indians, Toronto will look to find any form of stability in their starting rotation.

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New York has raced to a comfortable lead in the American League East, receiving contributions from all over their roster.  The division still looks to be a multi-horse race poised for a battle throughout August and September, but if the Toronto Blue Jays hope to end their ever-growing playoff drought, the road will likely run through the Bronx.

Veterans R.A. Dickey and Mak Buehrle will bookend the series for Toronto as both look to shake a troubling April and return to their career norms.  Game two will also feature the starting debut of Marco Estrada, who is filling in for the recently demoted Daniel Norris.

Toronto’s boom-or-bust offense continues to be their greatest strength and weakness, depending on the night.  Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista seem to be turning the corner, however, and will be the driving forces on this club as the Blue Jays look to recreate their incredible 21-9 run from May of 2014.

Next: A look at the New York Yankees