At the All-Star break, the Toronto Blue Jays had a record of 50 wins and 43 losses.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
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Toronto's Jays are in the hunt, as are the other teams in the East Division.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Only the New York Yankees are far ahead.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
So forget about the division championship for the Jays.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
6 teams per league are now in the playoffs and the division champions are guaranteed a spot. That leaves only 3 spots for the Jays and other opponents.
Jays to watch in second half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
And there are opponents. The Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox are all in the running. Why not even the Baltimore Orioles!
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Outside of the division, it's reassuring to see that only the Seattle Mariners seem to be contending for a "qualified team" spot.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
So while making the playoffs seems like a real possibility, things still need to fall into place in Toronto.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
The Jays fired manager Charlie Montoyo before the All-Star break. He has been replaced by John Schneider.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
And now the excuses are over! The Jays are much better than their 50-43 record. Much better!
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Jose Berrios isn't pitching up to his potential. At least he's picking up the wins.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Yusei Kikuchi is also having a disastrous season.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Not to mention the long-term injury to Hyun Jin Ryu.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Hopefully starter Alek Manoah holds down the fort with the more unlucky Kevin Gausman.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
The relievers are having a roller coaster ride. Adam Cimber is excellent.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
David Phelps as well, while Trevor Richard is generous.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
On offense, the sense of urgency must soon be heard. Among regulars, only Alejandro Kirk and Lourdes Gurriel are hitting for more than .275.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Vladimir Guerrero hit the 20 home run mark, but there's no party in the village. He's hitting for just .270.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Bo Bichette has struck out over 100 times so far this season. He is among the leaders in Major League Baseball.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
While it may seem like a difficult task to turn around, it's an interesting challenge for new manager John Schneider.
Jays to watch in 2nd half of season
Credit: USA Today/IMAGN
Despite a disappointing season, the Jays have what it takes to make the playoffs!
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