Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays Soar out of May

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.

New York Yankees: 29-18
Boston Red Sox 27-22
Baltimore Orioles: 25-23
Tampa Bay Rays: 27-26
Toronto Blue Jays: 23-27

Despite a 3-1 loss on Sunday night to the Texas Rangers, the Blue Jays rode an excellent week to put themselves that much closer to .500. Entering play Monday the Blue Jays sit 4 games under .500 and 7.5 behind the New York Yankees. Despite a terrible start to April the Blue Jays appear poised to make a stab at legitimacy. Toronto managed 5 straight wins against no slouches. The first coming last Sunday to the Baltimore Orioles. They then swept the Brewers before winning a weekend series against the Rangers.

The Blue Jays got back some familiar faces in Josh Donaldson and Troy Tulowitzki. With both JA Happ and Fransisco Liriano making progress as well the opening day lineup should be mostly intact. The Blue Jays offense stepped up in a big way, using the long ball to win 4 straight during the week. Ryan Goins continued to prove his worth offensively and defensively and has likely earned a spot on the bench when the rotation arms come back. The Blue Jays get the Reds to start the week and follow up by hosting the Kings of the East during the weekend.

Final Takeaway:

The Blue Jays took quite a few step forwards during May. With most of the lineup back in the fold, the Blue Jays will have a chance to contend for .500 ball and more.