Wow, over 2.5 seasons since the last set of posts right after the trade with the Marlins. Going into the 2013 season, Toronto was the favourite to win the World Series. That didn't happen, not even close. Less optimism for 2014, same dismal year. Two-thirds of the way through the 2015 season, following some incredible trades including the addition of Donaldson in the off-season and last week's activity that brought in Tulo(!) and Price (!!), the Jays are currently in a 3-way tie for the second wild card spot and 5.5 games behind NYY in the AL East. The Jays have been hot since shipping out Reyes, and are pumped and set to make a run for their first playoff appearance since '93. There hasn't been this much excitement around the team since the trades with the Marlins and Mets.
So, will they actually make the playoffs this year, even if it's just the wild-card game? Price's performance yesterday was spectacular, which followed Dickey's great start on Sunday (who hasn't given up an earned run in 20+ innings). Buehrle is Buehrle. The engine of the team, their bats, is still firing on all cylinders. Holes in the defence have been patched up (and throws from short will now make it to first). Bullpen has improved with Sanchez, Hawkins and Howe now in there. Revere stole 49 bags last year.
I think their chances of post-season play are high. And in surrendering 11 prospects last week, mostly pitching (I am saddened to see Norris go), I hope they play October baseball because they did give up a chunk of the future.
