Series Preview: Blue Jays at Twins

The Blue Jays come into this game 19-23, seven games back of the Orioles in the AL East, having lost 5 straight. They have not been hitting well, as they are 20th in the league in OPS (.711), and 17th in runs scored (168). They do still hit a lot of home runs (49), 9th in the league in that category.

Their pitching is better, ranked 9th in the league in ERA (3.73) and an opponent OPS of .710 which ranks 13th.

The Twins come home to Target Field having just been swept in Detroit and hope to rebound during this 7 game home stand. After the Blue Jays series, the Twins will host the Royals for a three game set. They are competing with the Braves for the worst record in MLB, right now tied at 10-29.

Who's hot:

Miguel Sano: 6-23, 3 HR

Jose Bautista: 6-19, 3 2B, HR, 5 BB, 3 SO

Who's not:

Joe Mauer : 3-26, HR, 2 BB, 8 SO, Former MLB The Show cover man.

Josh Donaldson: 1-21, Current MLB The Show cover man.

Game 1

Thursday, May 19th, 7:10 PM CDT

Probables: Marco Estrada (1-2, 2.89) vs Ervin Santana (1-2, 3.38)

Santana is coming off his best start of the year where he went six innings, allowed just one run and struck out five.

Game 2

Friday, May 20th, 7:10 PM CDT

Probables: Aaron Sanchez (3-1, 3.29) vs Tyler Duffey (1-2, 1.85)

Tyler Duffey is coming off his best start of the year, where he pitched seven shutout innings en route to a win.

Game 3

Saturday, May 21st, 1:10 PM CDT

Probables: J.A. Happ (5-1, 3.40) vs Pat Dean

Pat Dean (Dat Pean) has taken Jose Berrios' spot in the rotation after coming in for him and pitching 5.1 innings and giving up 2 runs. Brian Dozier has 2 HR in 7 AB against Happ.

Game 4

Sunday May 22nd, 1:10 PM CDT

Probables: Marcus Stroman vs Phil Hughes

Hughes, another pitcher coming off a good start, hopes to continue that against the HR threatening lineup of the Blue Jays.

Prediction: There will be a benches-clearing event.