Blue Jays hit the road looking to Buck the Orioles

Sep 25, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher R.A. Dickey (43) throws a pitch during the first inning in a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Wednesday, September 30th  –  7:05 ET
R.A. Dickey (11-11, 4.00)  vs.  Kevin Gausman (3-7, 4.49)

The veteran knuckler mans the hill for Toronto’s hump day affair in Baltimore, and after a season that started out poorly, he’s fought back to give himself an opportunity at a sub-4.00 ERA with a quality outing. Dickey is 5-1 over his last 10 starts, as well, which has rejuvenated a rather lopsided win-loss record.

Much like fellow greybeard Mark Buehrle, Dickey can find himself in lengthy hot and cold stretches. Thankfully for the Blue Jays, their starter seems to be clicking at the right time with the playoffs on the horizon. Wednesday will be a test, though, as Dickey has not performed well on the road this season. Toronto needs to have confidence that Dickey can still work his knuckleball in October when forced to pitch outdoors and in the elements.

Kevin Gausman will counter for Baltimore, and while the right-hander possesses a great deal of talent and potential, 2015 has been unkind to him. He’s had his moments in the rotation since moving out from the bullpen, but in his last two starts, he’s again run into trouble. Gausman allowed five earned runs over 5.0 innings against the Boston Red Sox on Friday, walking three batters.

Next: Game 4 Preview: Price hunts for 19th win