Toronto Blue Jays vs Los Angeles Angels Picks and Predictions August 22nd 2024

Angels look for measure of revenge vs. Blue Jays

The Angels are seeking payback after a tough series earlier this month, where they were outplayed in every facet of the game, losing all three matchups by a combined score of 19-5. Now, as they head to Toronto, the Angels are determined to reverse their fortunes and keep their postseason hopes alive.

Toronto, despite its earlier dominance, has faced difficulties since that series, going 2-4 in subsequent matchups against the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds. The Jays’ most recent game saw them squander a 6-0 lead in a frustrating 11-7 loss to the Reds, highlighting their recent inconsistencies.

Recent Struggles: Both Teams Looking to Bounce Back

The Angels also enter this series on a 2-4 skid, having lost series to both the Atlanta Braves and the Kansas City Royals. Wednesday’s 3-0 shutout loss to the Royals capped a disappointing stretch for the Angels, who are in dire need of a turnaround.

Toronto’s recent struggles mirror those of the Angels, with both teams underperforming following their last meeting. However, the Angels might take some solace in their recent history in Toronto, where they’ve won four of the last six games, contrasting with their poor home record against the Jays.

Pitching Matchup: Uncertainty on Both Sides

The Blue Jays have yet to officially announce their starting pitcher for Thursday’s opener, opting to push right-hander Chris Bassitt’s start to Friday. This decision likely points to a bullpen game for Toronto, with left-handed reliever Ryan Yarbrough expected to play a significant role. Yarbrough, with a 3-3 record and a 5.87 ERA in his career against the Angels, will need to step up as Toronto seeks to stabilize their pitching rotation.

On the Angels’ side, right-hander Griffin Canning is expected to take the mound. Canning, with a 4-11 record and a 5.41 ERA this season, has struggled, particularly against the Blue Jays, where he holds a 6.52 ERA in two career starts. Despite these numbers, the Angels will be counting on him to deliver a solid performance and give their offense a chance to capitalize.

Player to Watch: George Springer’s Power Surge

One player who could pose a significant threat to the Angels is Toronto’s George Springer. The veteran outfielder has been on a tear, hitting three home runs in the last two games, including a leadoff homer on Wednesday—his 17th of the season. Springer’s ability to set the tone early will be crucial for the Jays, particularly given their recent struggles in maintaining leads.

A Homecoming for Kevin Pillar

For Angels outfielder Kevin Pillar, this series holds special significance as he returns to the city where his MLB journey took off. Pillar, who played for the Blue Jays from 2013 to 2019, reflected on his time in Toronto, particularly recalling a pivotal moment in 2015 when he made a career-defining catch on Jackie Robinson Day. His return to Toronto, with his wife accompanying him for the first time since 2019, adds a personal narrative to the series that fans will enjoy following.

Toronto’s Farewell to a Legend

In a notable off-field development, the Blue Jays recently learned that Toronto native Joey Votto has decided to retire from professional baseball. Although Votto did not play for the Blue Jays, he was part of their Triple-A affiliate in Buffalo. Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Votto’s illustrious career, highlighting the impact he had on the game and the respect he garnered throughout his time in baseball.

Final Thoughts: A Pivotal Series Ahead

This series carries significant weight for both the Angels and the Blue Jays. For the Angels, it’s a chance to exact revenge and keep their playoff aspirations alive. For Toronto, it’s an opportunity to regain form and solidify their standing as the postseason approaches. With both teams facing recent struggles, this four-game set promises to be a fiercely contested battle where every pitch and every play could make the difference.

As the Angels and Blue Jays prepare to face off, fans can expect a thrilling series that could shape the trajectory of both teams’ seasons.

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