3 reasons why the Blue Jays are still in the running and 2 why they're not

Out of it: Lack of quality depth in the rotation

As much as the durability of the rotation has been key to keeping Toronto in contention, it is also a precarious situation. As lucky as they have been with the position, they desperately need it to continue.

As per Jays Journal's Edward Eng, the Blue Jays are not prepared to handle an injury to their rotation. They just do not have the required quality starting pitching depth.

In terms of the 40-man roster, the only real options are Bowden Francis and Thomas Hatch now that Zach Thompson has been DFA'd, with neither of them inspiring a whole lot of confidence. Hatch has been decidedly average and is arguably better-served as a reliever anyway.

Outside of the 40-man roster, Casey Lawrence leads the Bisons in starts, innings pitched and strikeouts. However, he also has a poor 5.81 ERA and 1.52 WHIP, which doesn't bode well if called up to the Majors.

As noted by Eng, this would then mean considering prospect Yosver Zulueta, but he is not ready yet for his first piece of MLB action. Overall, the rotation depth is concerning, especially with Manoah's recent demotion to the minor leagues.