Toronto Blue Jays: Five Series to Watch Down the Stretch

Jun 27, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Texas Rangers right fielder Shin-Soo Choo (17) reacts after striking out during the first inning in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. The Texas Rangers won 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Toronto Blue Jays @ Texas Rangers, August 25th-27th

The Texas Rangers (64-59) are one of the hottest teams in baseball right now, too, winning eight of their last 10 games to claim the second Wild Card spot in the American League. At 548 runs, the Rangers are also good for seventh overall in baseball when it comes to run support. Their pitching staff ranks 26th in team ERA, however, and it’s here where the Jays can really hurt the Rangers.

Jun 26, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Kevin Pillar (11) slides into third base on Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) in the second inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

If Texas has strong offence, then Toronto has downright ridiculous offence. The Jays’ 670 runs dwarf every other team in baseball (the New York Yankees, who rank second in run support, have sent only 586 men across home plate in comparison).

For their part, the Jays have the 12th best team ERA in baseball right now, but this actually jumps to the third best team ERA following the all-star break (Texas ranks 24th for this period). With Mark Buehrle, Price and Marco Estrada taking the mound for Toronto, the Rangers will have a tough task set before them.

I predict a second-straight series sweep on the road for the Jays!

Notes: the Rangers are 28-30 at home this season while the Jays are 29-32 on the road. Toronto currently leads the season series 2-1.