Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays fail to gain ground, trade deadline outlooks

Orioles lose, then regain lead
Baltimore Orioles: 57-40

The Orioles found themselves in hot water after losing a four-game series against the Yankees. They then responded with a three-game sweep of the Indians ending their week with a four-game win streak and firmly atop the AL East.

Their normally explosive offence was forced to take any run they could in a rare quiet week for them. Once again their offence did not produce more than 5 runs all week.

Baltimore saw a strong week from their rotation, which has been their biggest issue up until now. With their bullpen as air-tight as it is, Baltimore will hope to see the offensive returns they know their bats are capable of as we wind down into the home stretch.

Deadline Needs:
The Orioles are a strong team as is, evidenced by how long they have been atop the AL East. Despite this, their starting rotation has been taxed at best. They currently possess the third worst rotation ERA in the big leagues.

Their offence has carried them this far, but they will likely seek to add another dominant arm to help out Chris Tillman at the front end of the rotation. It’s very likely we’ll see the Red Sox acquire a starter with a reputable name before the deadline closes.

Final Takeaway:
The Orioles are still the top team in the division. Despite their weak rotation, the Orioles have mashed their way to the top. They will play a weekend set in Toronto and hope to dispatch a rising foe, rather than repeat the results of their series against New York.

Next: Red Sox on the cusp and looking to add