Despite playing .500 ball in their last 10 games, the Yankees sit atop the AL East, tied with the Rays, holding a slim half-game lead over the Red Sox. Behind Boston lies Toronto, which has won seven of their last 10.
The Yankees have won three of their five meetings against the Blue Jays this season.
On the Hill:
Monday: Carlos Villanueva (1-0, 1.48) vs. Bartolo Colon (2-2, 3.16)
Tuesday: Ricky Romero (4-4, 3.10) vs. CC Sabathia (4-3, 3.06)
Wednesday: Jo-Jo Reyes (0-3, 4.07) vs. Freddy Garcia (2-4, 3.12)
Players to Watch:
Jose Bautista: He has two homers against the Yankees this season. In both Toronto victories, his homer has been the difference. Pitch around him. Don’t throw him strikes. Give him first base. How ever you want to say it, just don’t let him beat you. Again.
Curtis Granderson: He’s hammered the Jays in five games this year, slugging .905 with three homers and a triple. Even with a couple of southpaws scheduled for Toronto, Granderson is the guy to watch this weekend in pinstripes.
Prediction:
The Yankees will realize they are lucky to be in first place and pick up the pace; they’ll bring out the brooms at home.
