Toronto Blue Jays set for divisional clash with Rays

Jun 19, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) celebrates scoring a run against the Baltimore Orioles in the first inning with right fielder Jose Bautista (19) at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Toronto Blue Jays gave their fans one of the season’s most entertaining series at home agains the Baltimore Orioles, but the wow-factor did not lend itself to success.  Toronto dropped two of three, culminating in Brett Cecil blowing a massive comeback lead along with his shot at closing ball games.

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In an AL East division that has suddenly begun to rise in unison, this leaves the Toronto Blue Jays three games back of the Tampa Bay Rays, who they’ll face for a three game set at Tropicana Field to kick off the week.  Toronto now trails the New York Yankees by 2.0 games and has moved into a tie with Baltimore.

Phil Coke, Ryan Tepera and Scott Copeland were all optioned to AAA Buffalo following Sunday’s loss, so this Blue Jays rotation and bullpen will have a new look, for better or for worse.  Steve Delabar, Roberto Osuna or even Bo Schultz could get a look in the ninth inning should a save situation arise.

Tampa Bay will be sending Matt Andriese, Chris Archer and Nate Karns to the mound to face the trio of Drew Hutchison, R.A. Dickey and Marco Estrada.  This will not only be a matchup of surging teams, but of differing styles as the Blue Jays and Rays have taken entirely different paths to this point in the season.

Next: First stop: A look at the Tampa Bay Rays