Why the Blue Jays Are the Team to Beat in the AL East

The American public and media do not recognize Toronto for what they're truly worth.  But it's understandable, I guess. 

The 1993 season was the last in which the Blue Jays amounted to anything.  "Touch 'em all Joe, 'cause you'll never hit another one like that."  It was the greatest moment in Toronto sports history, and maybe the greatest World Series finish of all time.

But that was almost 15 years ago.  Finally, Toronto has another team with the talent to possibly win it all.

When it comes down to it, pitching is much more important than offense, and so this will be our focus.

Toronto might just have the best all-around pitching staff in the American League.  The bullpen is their strength, and starting pitching isn't far behind...

• Roy Halladay is a workhorse but will get injured this season, and Litsch will come through big time.
• AJ Burnett is coming off a great late season performance that he'll extend and bring into the 2008 season for numbers comparable to Halladay's.  He is my sleeper pick for the Cy Young.
• Shaun Marcum will only start 22 games, but he'll go 14-4.
• Dustin McGowan will be consistent, going 15-9, and improve on his 2007 totals.
• Jesse Litsch will make 23 starts and go 11-9.
• Casey Janssen will make 29 starts and go 14-5.
• Gustavo Chacin will make 11 starts and go 6-2, but he'll end up on the DL again.
• BJ Ryan will save 48 games, and blow only one.
• Jeremy Accardo and Bryan Wolfe will be the most feared set-up men in the American League, with sub 1.50 ERAs.
• Brandon League and Scott Downs will put up reliable numbers.

Also, Toronto's offense isn't as bad as you might think...

• Toronto has incredible depth compared to Boston and New York.  (For example, Stairs, Stewart, Scutaro, and Johnny Mac.)
• In the case of injuries, Toronto has suitable, competent back-up players.  But if either Big Papi or Manny are hurt, Boston is screwed.
• Toronto will hit much better this season as Overbay enjoys a career year, posting Olerud '93 type numbers: .354, 26 HRs, 112 RBIs, 61 doubles.
• Eckstein and Reed Johnson will be a one-two pain in the ass.
• Thomas will belt 35 home runs while posting a .330 average.
• When all is said and done, Aaron Hill will surpass Robbie Alomar's club record of 17 home runs for a second baseman.
• Stairs and Stewart will see considerable playing time.
• Toronto will rank fifth in offenses.

In the end, Toronto will win 103 games and capture the AL East, defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks in seven games.