Are the Playoffs a Possibility?

Another night. Another series win. It's hard to define what has gone right so far for the Blue Jays unexpected early rise to the top of the American League standings, because in many ways, they've had their share of bad breaks. With Romero's announced time on the 15 day DL yesterday, forty per cent of the starting staff is already down. There were a few prognosticators who picked the Jays to be this year's version of the Tampa Rays of 2008. But when I say a few, I mean, like, two.

And I'm not sure they were serious.

Toronto leads the American league in most offensive categories, and the staff ERA is under 4.00, so they are clearly playing as a well balanced ball club right now. The difference between this year and last year, however, can probably be found in their ability to make the most of their opportunities.

Case in point last night. Aaron Hill hits a two out double in the seventh, and Rios, who seems to be coming out of his slump, drills his first home run of the year to put the Jays up by three. An inning later, Rolen drives in another run with two outs to give the Jays a comfortable three run cushion heading into the ninth. This simply didn't happen last year. Will it continue? Well, they're a young team, and their success will largely depend on the kids, Snider and Lind, continuing to produce and spread the lineup. I can't remember a more balanced Toronto attack since the early 1990's, can you?

On wonders what their chances would have been had Marcum and McGowan been available this year. Either way, we'll enjoy the run for now.

-Steve