Blue Jays AL East Recap: Toronto holds their ground

Each week, Jays Journal will take a look at the bigger picture of the American League East to help frame not only where the Blue Jays are in the standings, but why they are there.

Toronto Blue Jays: 70-54
Boston Red Sox: 69-54
Baltimore Orioles: 67-56
New York Yankees: 63-60
Tampa Bay Rays: 52-70

The Jays fought hard every game this week and battled to an even 3-3. After edging out close games in New York, the Blue Jays and Indians battled it out over the weekend as the Indians emerged as the series winners. Despite underwhelming results for the week, the Blue Jays maintained a thin half a game lead over the Red Sox for first place. The Blue Jays get a rest day on Monday.

The Blue Jays’ weekend clash in Cleveland looked and felt like a playoff series. Two division leaders were playing their all every inning.

Despite the heartbreaking late night losses suffered on Friday and Sunday, the Blue Jays have a lot to be positive about. Russell Martin continues to be as hot as ever and is providing ample offence for the Blue Jays. Fransisco Liriano looked excellent in his third start and no decision Friday night. Aaron Sanchez has been sent to the minors between starts in an effort to limit his innings, an unorthodox, yet creative way to keep him in the rotation.

Slugger Jose Bautista should return soon, providing Toronto with an extra offensive jolt, and Kevin Pillar is expected to return for tomorrow’s series versus the Angels.

Final Takeaway:

The Blue Jays will clash with the Angels of Anaheim for the first time this year to open the week, and then play host to the Twins to start the weekend. After a day of much needed rest on Monday, the Blue Jays will look to gain more ground against their AL East foes.

Next: Red Hot Red Sox are just inches behind...