2 reasons for optimism, 3 for concern as the Blue Jays enter final five weeks of 2023

What are the key strengths and weaknesses of the Blue Jays heading into the stretch run?

Toronto Blue Jays v Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays v Baltimore Orioles | Scott Taetsch/GettyImages
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Running the gauntlet against the beasts of the AL East to finish the season

As mentioned before, the upcoming two-week stretch against sub-par teams is vital for the Blue Jays because following that slew of games, they will have to face their demons once again as they play only AL East teams for the final three weeks of the season. With the MLB implementing a more balanced schedule for the 2023 season, each and every game within the same division becomes that much more crucial. Unfortunately for the Blue Jays, they haven’t had much success against their divisional rivals all season.

Overall, they have compiled a dismal 12-25 record against their divisional foes. The only good news is that the New York Yankees have gone on a complete tailspin recently in the month of August, so that they could be there for the taking come September when the Jays play them six times. In addition, they do not need to face the division-leading Baltimore Orioles any more, as they finished with a horrid 3-10 record against them for the season.

If the Jays are to have any chance in making the postseason, they cannot continue this losing trend against AL East opponents during those last three weeks of the season. As a result, it is about time the Jays step it up, disregard who their opponent is, and play to their utmost potential in every game from here on out. Anything less will probably spell disaster for the ballclub.

Overall, it will be up to the Blue Jays to determine if they are indeed contenders, and not pretenders, as they play out the final stretch of the season in the coming weeks.

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