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Toronto Blue Jays: 4 Reasons They Won’t Win the AL East

By Paul Taylor

Jun 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons (5) is ejected from the game by third base umpire Ted Barrett (65) in the ninth inning. The Chicago White Sox beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2.at U.S. Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons (5) is ejected from the game by third base umpire Ted Barrett (65) in the ninth inning. The Chicago White Sox beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2.at U.S. Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Blue Jays
Feb 13, 2017; Lee County, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Rick Porcello (left) and Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) walk to the practice field during reporting day for pitchers and catchers at JetBlue Park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

4) Boston Red Sox

Tip of the Tower’s RJ Stacey recently wrote an article offering three reasons why the Blue Jays will win the AL East. One of the reasons relates to the Boston Red Sox, who he predicts will see a drop in their offensive production.

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However, in the interest of playing devil’s advocate, I’m going to make the opposite argument. As things stand, the Red Sox are quite rightly favorites to repeat as division champions, after winning 93 games in 2016.

There is no denying the retirement of David Ortiz will have some impact on the offense. However, the Red Sox should have enough components to continue scoring effectively.

The likes of Xander Bogaerts, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Mookie Betts should all continue to produce. The X factor will be Hanley Ramirez, with questions surrounding his ability to repeat his 2016 form, which included 30 homers and 111 RBIs.

However, even if the Red Sox do see a drop in production — thanks in part to the loss of Oritz — they have a starting rotation capable of picking up the slack. In particular, the trio of Rick Porcello, David Price, and Chris Sale will be tough to contend with.

For what it’s worth, the Blue Jays have held their own against the Red Sox the previous two seasons, as evidenced by a 19-19 head-to-head record. Overall though, when it’s all said and done, they will be looking up at their rivals in the standings at the conclusion of the season.

Next: Jays Should Make a Play for Angel Pagan

What’s your take on the Blue Jays’ chances of success this season? Do you think they will win the AL East? If not, do you still believe they will make the postseason as a wild card team? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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