Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays soar into All-Star break

Baltimore holds on to lead
Baltimore Orioles: 51-36

The Baltimore Orioles enter the All-Star break with their lead in the division intact, albeit thinly. Despite winning both of their series’ this week against the Dodgers and Angels, the Orioles were unable to consolidate their status further with the Red Sox and Jays both surging.

The Orioles offence, though not quite as powerful as usual was able to get the job done for Baltimore. Backing this effort was their sturdy bullpen, as well as another two quality starts from ace Chris Tillman.

Baltimore will begin play with the Rays on Friday with only a two game lead in the division and they will need to work to dispatch these rivals in the week after the All-Star break. The Orioles taxed rotation should enjoy the time, and have the ability to come back next weekend rejuvenated and ready for the long haul.

The Orioles will undoubtedly be shopping for additional rotation help as we march ever closer towards the trade deadline.

Final Takeaway:

The Orioles held on to the division to end the first half of the season, though by a thinner margin than they had hoped. They will look for their rotation to settle down over the break, and hope the Jays and Red Sox cool down.

Next: Red Sox roll into ASG, too