Blue Jays Series Preview: Can Jays continue run of success against AL East?

Game 2: May 31 – 7:07 ET

CC Sabathia (3-3, 2.83 ERA, 2.97 FIP) vs.
JA Happ (6-2, 3.20 ERA, 4.26 FIP)

Happ carved up the Yankees in their latest tilt last week, as he got the nod over Aaron Sanchez against a left handed heavy Yankee lineup. He went 7 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 5 K and got over 60% ground balls. He’s only had one bad start all year, and the Yankees are pitiful against LHP, so there should be more success for Happ in this one.

CC Sabathia has been remarkable so far for the Yankees this year, putting up very good numbers and already matching his 2015 fWAR of 1.2. He’s introduced a cutter this year, and he’s using it over 29% of the time, after only mixing it in very rarely over the last two years.

It’s become a weapon for him and he’s used it in all situations. It’s also made the rest of his repertoire a little bit better as well, as he’s able to rely less on his slider and curve, giving hitters another pitch to worry about. His changeup has been excellent as it’s getting over 20% whiffs, and it’s become a go to strikeout pitch.

Obviously, CC isn’t the same pitcher he once was and his fastball velocity is way down to 88 mph. But, he’s become adept at setting up hitters, mixing speeds and locations, and keeping guys off balance.

The results have been good for him so far this year, and it’s up to the Jays to put a dent in that 2.3% HR/FB ratio.

Next: Sanchez continues to impress