4 biggest question marks the second-half Blue Jays will have

Will they play better against the AL East?

In some respects, the Blue Jays' position in the standings can be considered somewhat of a minor miracle. Especially when you consider their record versus the AL East.

In fact, the Blue Jays' record within their own division could ultimately be their downfall. Their 7-20 record versus the rest of the AL East is easily the worst in the division. (The Yankees are actually second-worst, at 13-17.)

The theory was that playing the rest of the AL East less -- 19 games versus each team reduced to 13 -- was meant to represent an advantage. The reality however, has been much different.

Each of the five teams in the AL East have benefited, as evidenced by all having a record above .500. Often regarded as the strongest division in the Majors, it tells you a lot when the Red Sox sit in last place with a 48-43 record.

The Blue Jays have been excellent outside the divison, as per their 67.2 winning percentage. However, they quite simply have to get better against the AL East, in order to ensure a playoff spot.

Heck, if the Blue Jays had even been nearly average so far versus their division, i.e. 13-14, it would make all the difference. At 56-35, they would be hot on the heels of the Rays (58-35) for the best record in the AL.

Regardless, moving forward the Blue Jays have 25 games remaining against the rest of the AL East. This includes the final 15 games overall on their regular season schedule, meaning their fate will still likely be determined versus their divisional rivals.