Blue Jays set to face Angels in critical Wild Card series

Aug 14, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher David Price (14) delivers a pitch against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Game 1: Friday, August 21st  –  10:05 ET
David Price (11-4, 2.41)  vs.  Hector Santiago (7-6, 2.86)

What can we say about David Price that we haven’t already? The lefty has gone 2-0 in his three starts since joining the Blue Jays, and if it weren’t for Aaron Sanchez hanging one against Carlos Beltran, Price would have wins in all three starts.

His most recent outing, strangely, may have been his most encouraging. Price simply did not have his best stuff on the mound, which happens regardless of a pitcher’s talent. Despite surrendering 11 hits over 7.1 innings, Price struck out six batters and limited the damage. As long as he can continue to work deep into games and steal the odd win, the Blue Jays should have no regrets.

In Santiago, the Jays may be catching the 27-year old at the right time in his dominant 2015 season. Perhaps there’s no “good” time to face Santiago, but over his past five starts, the right-hander has allowed 16 earned runs over 28.1 innings. He was on a brilliant tear before this recent blip, though, so the Jays need to be on their toes. Keep in mind, however, that our friend Hector is quite prone to the home run ball…

Next: Game 2: Estrada takes on the young lefty