The Toronto Blue Jays will win the AL East!
The New York Yankees have been experiencing a downward spiral, struggling to find their rhythm. DJ LeMahieu and Stanton are having a rough time at the plate, leading to a poor season for them. The unexpected firing of their hitting coach adds to the uncertainty surrounding the team. Such developments are uncommon, especially for a franchise like the Yankees. This decline in form may work in favour of the Blue Jays' pursuit of the division crown.
While the Tampa Bay Rays dominated the AL East for a considerable period, they have recently encountered a few setbacks. The team that was once red hot has started to slide. Injuries have impacted their performance, with Shane McClanahan being sidelined. However, his expected return on July 16th or 18th might provide them with a much-needed boost. As a result, the Rays' grip on the division is loosening, making way for other contenders.
The Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners, Yankees, and Boston Red Sox, who trail behind the Blue Jays, have been struggling themselves. Their performances have been less than desirable, leaving the door open for Toronto to make a strong push for the division title. The Jays are currently showing great promise and have a good chance of securing a wild card spot at the very least.
One notable factor working in the Blue Jays' favour is their historical performance in the second half of the season. In both the 2020 and 2021 seasons, they proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with after the All-Star break. Last season, they were the seventh-best team in the league during that period, and in 2021, they improved to become the sixth-best team. This trend suggests that the team has the ability to turn up the heat and excel during the crucial second half of the season.
While the team has faced its share of challenges, particularly with the absence of certain key players, their rotation has remained a stronghold. The addition of potential acquisitions at the trade deadline could further bolster the team's chances. If Alek Manoah performs consistently as a fourth or fifth starter, it would provide a significant boost to the rotation and contribute to the Blue Jays' success in their pursuit of the AL East crown.
With the Blue Jays showing signs of strength, the AL East race is far from over. While it may be considered a bold prediction, the argument for the Blue Jays to emerge victorious gains credibility when considering the struggles of their division rivals. As the season progresses and teams strive to find their form, the Toronto Blue Jays have a golden opportunity to seize the top spot in the AL East and solidify their position as a strong contender in the league.
