2015 ALDS - Toronto Blue Jays Vs. Texas Rangers - PLAYOFFS!!!!!

[flames_fan_down_under]

American League Division Series

Gm 1 Thu, Oct 8 TBD Rangers @ Blue Jays
FOX or FS1 or MLBN / SNET

Gm 2 Fri, Oct 9 TBD Rangers @ Blue Jays
FOX or FS1 or MLBN / SNET

Gm 3 Sun, Oct 11 TBD Blue Jays @ Rangers
FOX or FS1 or MLBN / SNET

Gm 4* Mon, Oct 12 TBD Blue Jays @ Rangers
FOX or FS1 or SNET

Gm 5* Wed, Oct 14 TBD Rangers @ Blue Jays
FOX or FS1 or SNET

Let the playoff roster speculation begin!

[Roof-Daddy]

This is my prediction for the 25 man roster.

1. LF - Revere
2. 3B - Donaldson
3. RF - Bautista
4. DH - Encarnation
5. 1B - Smoak
6. SS - Tulowitzki
7. )C - Martin
8. 2B - Goins
9. CF - Pillar

Bench - Pennington
Bench - Navarro
Bench - Colabello
Bench - Carerra
Bench - Pompey

Starter - Price
Starter - Stroman
Starter - Dickey
Starter - Estrada

Relief - Osuna
Relief - Sanchez
Relief - Cecil
Relief - Lowe
Relief - Hawkins
Relief - Hendriks
Relief - Loup

[dino7c]

all those games and then best of 5 first round...oh baseball

hopefully the Blue Jays can turn it back on

[Kidder]

Let's get it on!

I must say thank goodness for the return of Stroman because Buehrle or Hutchinson in that 4th spot would be scary right now.

Ok! Bluejays! Let's play ball!

[SportsJunky]

That is a strong lineup and rotation that Roof-Daddy posted. Texas has a good team but overall, the Jays are better top to bottom. Not to mention, Toronto's top end power is unrivaled. Those first 6 or 7 guys are scary good. Even with all those bats, Price may be the MVP of this series.

[TheAlpineOracle]

I think Thole might unfortunately squeeze into the lineup at the expense of Carrerra.

[Jason14h]

I can't see the Jays carrying Thole. Martin caught Dickey the last start to get ready for this.

[mac_82]

When will the game start times be confirmed?

[EverfresH15]

They are up now. How the hell is a guy supposed to have a playoff keg party at 1245 on Friday!!!! FACK YOU MLB!

[J pold]

They are up now. How the hell is a guy supposed to have a playoff keg party at 1245 on Friday!!!! FACK YOU MLB!
Link?

[bomber317]

http://m.mlb.com/postseason-schedule

TBD for Game 1 - 3:37 ET if Houston wins the WC. 4:07 ET if NYY wins the WC.

Twitter link for the TBD option - https://twitter.com/MLB_PR/status/651122361815560192

[TheAlpineOracle]

It says 12:30 pm on MLB's website for Game 2 in Toronto. What a joke.

[J pold]

Wow that is terrible.

[bomber317]

silver lining, we're complaining about start times for a playoff Blue Jays game.

[TheAlpineOracle]

I have to be at work on Friday for a big deadline. I'm out of my mind pissed off. All so the goddamn Yankees can potentially have a prime time game as the Wildcard.

[GirlySports]

it was certain Toronto would get the worst playoff times

[Blaster86]

it was certain Toronto would get the worst playoff times

Don't get that. Isn't all of Canada considered Toronto's market? How does that not match up better than Kansas or St.Louis.

[Jason14h]

8:00 PM ALDS Gm 3 Blue Jays @ Rangers TBD at TBD FS1 or SNET
What a weird one. Cowboys place at home same time.

[itcrossedtheline]

8:00 PM ALDS Gm 3 Blue Jays @ Rangers TBD at TBD FS1 or SNET
What a weird one. Cowboys place at home same time.

the cowboys play in the afternoon. 2:25MST kickoff

[GirlySports]

Don't get that. Isn't all of Canada considered Toronto's market? How does that not match up better than Kansas or St.Louis.

American TV ratings. They wouldn't even show the Jays if they were allowed to.

[trumpethead]

the cowboys play in the afternoon. 2:25MST kickoff

Wow that would be quite the Sunday afternoon in Arlington. Cowboys - Pats at 2:25mt then walk down the street 2 blocks for Rangers - Blue Jays game 3 at 6:10mt. Think about how much beer they will sell.

[transplant99]

Don't get that. Isn't all of Canada considered Toronto's market? How does that not match up better than Kansas or St.Louis.

Yep....Toronto isn't in the US though and Fox/TBS pay a fortune for playoffs.

[transplant99]

American TV ratings. They wouldn't even show the Jays if they were allowed to.

Well that's silly, they still want the texas numbers which wont be bad, but will be dwarfed by the CHI, NY, and LA series

[V]

Right on, just realized I don't have to work on Friday. Woot!!

[Jason14h]

Wow that would be quite the Sunday afternoon in Arlington. Cowboys - Pats at 2:25mt then walk down the street 2 blocks for Rangers - Blue Jays game 3 at 6:10mt. Think about how much beer they will sell

I am making the trip for Thurs game in Houston and Sunday Dallas.... Hello scalpers.

[Enoch Root]

Don't know why people are surprised about the TV timeslots.

Rabid fans will watch their team, regardless of what time it is at.

The key for ratings is attracting the casual fan at prime time. The Yankees and the Cubs and the Dodgers are going to that, not the Jays or the Rangers.

[Rjcsjc62]

Agreed, and even if you take the big/small market out of the picture, you have 4 games to play on Friday. One of them will be in an eastern time zone. Doesn't it just make sense for that one to play first?

The Dodgers weren't getting that slot regardless of fanbase.

[rd_aaron]

Where in town will be good for catching the games?

[Maritime Q-Scout]

Well, thanks to Facebook I've been embracing the role of Most Hated Man in Canada.

Go Rangers!

Here's hoping the Taylor Swift Curse continues.

[Blaster86]

Well, thanks to Facebook I've been embracing the role of Most Hated Man in Canada.

Go Rangers!

Here's hoping the Taylor Swift Curse continues.

No one likes you.

No one.

[Enoch Root]

No one likes you.

No one.

says the Canuck fan!

(peace)

[transplant99]

so...Fridays game starts at 10:30 am? Glad I took it off to make a 4 day weekend weeks ago...sheesh.

[jayswin]

Silly question; who gets the Canadian ratings then? We're watching the games on fox just like Americans and Sportsnet is done for the season. Why would fox not get the sure to be 3mil plus viewers in Canada if no channel in Canada gets them?

Or will they be simulcast on Canadian channels? As far as I knew we'd be watching them on actual fox channels in canada.

[browna]

Way back when, I recall vividly the newspaper articles the next day slamming NBC's Tony Kubek (who did the color for Jays games for CTV all season) when he kept saying "Toronto, Ontario Canada" (as if people may have thought Toronto was on the moon) in '85 ALCS during game Game 1, and, he predicted the Royals to win the series.

I recall at least 2 of the 4 home Jays games being in the afternoon, being in grade school just before 4, and coming home just in time to see the finish. I think they had the NLCS games on the same days back then.

[transplant99]

Silly question; who gets the Canadian ratings then? We're watching the games on fox just like Americans and Sportsnet is done for the season. Why would fox not get the sure to be 3mil plus viewers in Canada if no channel in Canada gets them?

Or will they be simulcast on Canadian channels? As far as I knew we'd be watching them on actual fox channels in canada.


Games are on Sportsnet in Canada.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Those first two start times are terribad. Thankfully I'm off Thursday, guess I'm missing the Friday game. Lame.

[jayswin]

Games are on Sportsnet in Canada.

Okay. I heard the Sportsnet broadcast team was done and assume the games would be on our actual fox channels. So it is fox that we're getting simulcast on Sportsnet right?

[Finger Cookin]

@SNstats 23h
If the #BlueJays make the World Series...the Leafs, Raptors, Jays & Argos will all be playing on the same day on October 30

[transplant99]

Okay. I heard the Sportsnet broadcast team was done and assume the games would be on our actual fox channels. So it is fox that we're getting simulcast on Sportsnet right?


This I don't know. I assumed it would be the regular crew but maybe it is the one broadcast only.

[browna]

Definitely going to be Fox's "B" crew, nothing to do with Snet. Get ready for a lot of "teaching" the broadcast audience about Toronto/Canada/the Jays roster.

[Finger Cookin]

Rotation wise, does it make sense to make Dickey the fourth starter? Like if Price, Estrada, and Stroman can win the first three games, can Price start the next game in the ALCS? And if the Jays don't go 3-0, then Dickey can go in Game 4 and then Price can be ready again for Game 1?

One of the bandwagoners here, so please be kind. :)

[browna]

Rotation wise, does it make sense to make Dickey the fourth starter? Like if Price, Estrada, and Stroman can win the first three games, can Price start the next game in the ALCS? And if the Jays don't go 3-0, then Dickey can go in Game 4 and then Price can be ready again for Game 1?

One of the bandwagoners here, so please be kind. :)

Dickey 9-3 at home, 2-8 on the road. Of course the Jays record at home is miles better than the .500 record on the road for the year, but given his pitching style (knuckleball) being in the 'Dome, they have more control in the fact that they can close it to help control the way the ball moves...so I think having him pitch at home is a better idea.

[bomber317]

Price - Dickey - Stroman - Estrada

Change in speeds of pitchers (hard - soft - hard - hard/soft), and as browna stated, control the dome for Dickey's knuckle ball

[Tyler]

Heading to Game 3. Hope it's a quick series in our favour :)

[Tyler]

Wow that would be quite the Sunday afternoon in Arlington. Cowboys - Pats at 2:25mt then walk down the street 2 blocks for Rangers - Blue Jays game 3 at 6:10mt. Think about how much beer they will sell.

I will be at both!

[FireGilbert]

http://www.reactiongifs.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/what_year_is_it_jumanji.gif

Go Jays Go! I can't believe they finally made the playoffs, I was beginning to think it would never happen.

[Caged Great]

The only disappointment that would happen is if the Jays get swept by the Rangers.

[Sainters7]

I'll never understand the mentality behind midday playoff games in this current age. Is there a particular reason why MLB caters to retirees, night shift employees, people who play hookey and the employment-challenged?


Posted from Calgarypuck.com App for Android

[GirlySports]

They don't want games to played at the same time so they need 4 blocks.

noon
3:30
7:00
10:30 ET

[JayP]

Price - Dickey - Stroman - Estrada

Change in speeds of pitchers (hard - soft - hard - hard/soft), and as browna stated, control the dome for Dickey's knuckle ball

Yeah, this is the ideal scenario. Then if it comes to game 5 you obviously go with Price who would be on his regular 4 days rest.

The only scary thing is starting a flyball pitcher like Estrada in Texas' joke stadium, but you have the same worries about starting Dickey there too.

[jayswin]

They don't want games to played at the same time so they need 4 blocks.

noon
3:30
7:00
10:30 ET

That seems absolutely ridiculous to me. I know I get snippy replies when I hammer on MLB scheduling, but good lord, I'll just never get it.

Could you imagine if the NHL playoffs started and the whole city of Calgary was pumped for game 1, and then the NHL announced they were playing while everyone was at work on a Tuesday at 2pm because......blocks?

"We need our blocks, can't have two games at the same time".

"Yeah, but fans have been waiting decades for this game, and now 75% of our fanbase will be at work during the game"

"Yeah, sorry but blocks, we need the games in blocks, sorry your block is during the work day and eliminates millions of viewers, but blocks."

[Jiggy_12]

That seems absolutely ridiculous to me. I know I get snippy replies when I hammer on MLB scheduling, but good lord, I'll just never get it.

Could you imagine if the NHL playoffs started and the whole city of Calgary was pumped for game 1, and then the NHL announced they were playing while everyone was at work on a Tuesday at 2pm because......blocks?

"We need our blocks, can't have two games at the same time".

"Yeah, but fans have been waiting decades for this game, and now 75% of our fanbase will be at work during the game"

"Yeah, sorry but blocks, we need the games in blocks, sorry your block is during the work day and eliminates millions of viewers, but blocks."

It's just the way it is. No use getting bent up over it. Always has been this way.
They aren't going to change the way they do things just because the Jays have sucked for 22 years.

[jayswin]

It's just the way it is. No use getting bent up over it. Always has been this way.
They aren't going to change the way they do things just because the Jays have sucked for 22 years.

So they're just like America with their gun issues? :D

Still looking forward to this one, the only problem is there's like 15 bluejays fans at work and everyone's at odds on how to deal with the game. Some are saying "Screw PVR, I can't not know what's going on if they're playing, so I'll be following along".

Which means inevitably there'll be cheering and anger when we're winning and losing, and general comments about the game, which means the rest of us won't be able to be oblivious until we get home.

Kind of a crappy situation as I really hate to just follow a scoreboard for a game this big, but it seems like the way I'll end up going. Oh well, these days I guess I should be happy I have a job to go to in order to miss the game. ;)

[bomber317]

Yeah, this is the ideal scenario. Then if it comes to game 5 you obviously go with Price who would be on his regular 4 days rest.

The only scary thing is starting a flyball pitcher like Estrada in Texas' joke stadium, but you have the same worries about starting Dickey there too.

I guess depending on how the series goes, if the Blue Jays are down 2-1 going into game 4, start Price in Texas, and Estrada for game 5 at home?

[Hemi-Cuda]

all those games and then best of 5 first round...oh baseball

hopefully the Blue Jays can turn it back on

I've never understood this about baseball. So many regular season games, and for over half the league a large chunk of them are meaningless. Why not trim down the regular season, expand the playoffs, and enjoy the revenue boost from more fans who get to enjoy playoff baseball?

[Jason14h]

Why not trim down the regular season, expand the playoffs, and enjoy the revenue boost from more fans who get to enjoy playoff baseball?

Within 3 years my guess is wildcard is best of 3, and divisional is best of 7.

[ClubFlames]

Stroman confirmed starter for Game 2.

[Jiggy_12]

Colour me surprised re: Stroman.
With no chance of Stro pitching twice in the series (except maybe relief in game 5) I am baffled as to why they would start Dickey on the Road if they didn't have to.

In a 7 game series, sure Stroman goes 2nd. But in a 5? This is a head scratcher

[Jiggy_12]

Maybe they want to go for the jugular early and go Price/Stroman/Estrada to try to get a sweep or a 2-1 lead, then roll the dice with Dickey on the road. Then if trailing 1-2, they have a choice between Dickey on the road or Price on one day short rest in game 4 (saving Dickey for game 5 at home).

This will be interesting to watch play out.

[868904]

Colour me surprised re: Stroman.
With no chance of Stro pitching twice in the series (except maybe relief in game 5) I am baffled as to why they would start Dickey on the Road if they didn't have to.

In a 7 game series, sure Stroman goes 2nd. But in a 5? This is a head scratcher

I think it's because it's a short series, you can't risk being down two games especially with game 3 in Texas, hence you start your two best pitchers.

The chances of being down by two with Price / Stroman are less than with Price / Dickey. You have to expect to at least split with Price / Stroman.

[Jiggy_12]

Yeah I mean it's definitely nitpicking that I'm even questioning it, our rotation is fantastic and this is a good problem to have. I would just love to have been a fly on the wall for the conversations to decide it.

[Jiggy_12]

From this article: http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/marcus-stroman-to-start-for-blue-jays-in-game-2-of-alds/


"Rather than starting Dickey and his knuckleball in the controlled environment of the Rogers Centre, Gibbons said ahead of the season finale that going with whoever they felt was second best made sense because, “maybe if you win that first one, you can put the screws to them that second one.”

“Or maybe you lose that first one and you really need that second one, you know what I mean?” he continued. “In those scenarios you want that stud going that second game, don’t you?”

I can't argue with that logic. Gibbons is clearly more of a "feel" guy than a numbers guy and his reasoning does make sense.

[Weitz]

Isn't it better for Dickey to pitch in an open air stadium like Texas? My baseball friend told me that playing outside is a big bonus for the knuckleball.

I know Dickey has struggled on the road however.

[edslunch]

Isn't it better for Dickey to pitch in an open air stadium like Texas? My baseball friend told me that playing outside is a big bonus for the knuckleball.

I know Dickey has struggled on the road however.


I had heard the opposite, that pitching indoors made the knuckleball predictably unpredictable vs., totally unpredictable if weather conditions vary. If that makes any sense

[Jason14h]

THE CURSE

http://www.si.com/mlb/2015/10/06/toronto-blue-jays-playoffs-sports-illustrated-cover

[Arsenal14]

I know when the Jays had Tom Candiotti back in the day, he much preferred pitching indoors so the SkyDome roof got closed on days he threw. I think the idea was that wind could impart a small rotation to the knuckleball, turning it into just a slow moving changeup.

[JayP]

Isn't it better for Dickey to pitch in an open air stadium like Texas? My baseball friend told me that playing outside is a big bonus for the knuckleball.

I know Dickey has struggled on the road however.

The weather can either help or hurt the knuckleball. Pitching into the wind typically creates a lot of movement (this was usually the case in the Mets' stadium). Pitching with the wind really makes the knuckleball ineffective by limiting it's movement.

Texas is known to have a pretty consistent wind stream that just carries balls for homers due to the design of the stadium. That is good news to Dickey's knuckleball as he would be pitching against that wind. I'm sure that played a role in Stroman starting game 2 over Dickey. If the Jays were going to playing in a stadium that has reverse winds, I'm sure they would be well aware of that data and would re-organize their rotation correspondingly to keep Dickey away from a bad situation.

[Jiggy_12]

Despite the fact he thinks he's now cursed them by picking them, ESPN's Jayson Stark with a great article on just why exactly the Jays are such favorites to win it all.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs2015/story/_/page/playoffs15_WSwinner/my-prediction-win-world-series

[REDVAN]

If they're up 2 going back to Arlington, I think it should be no worries about Dickey on the mound.

1-1 might still be ok going with Dickey, but they might save him for game 4 then?

If down 2 going to Texas, we've obviously screwed the pooch anyway.

[Caged Great]

Would you go

Game 1 Price
Game 2 Stroman
Game 3 Estrada
Game 4 Price
Game 5 Stroman

and skip Dickey all-together. Price would be pitching game 4 on 3 days rest, but that shouldn't be that big a problem for him depending how much he pitches in game 1.

[Caged Great]

Say the Jays win in 4, that would allow enough time between starts for Price to be available likely in game 2 and 6 of the ALCS.

[JayP]

Would you go

Game 1 Price
Game 2 Stroman
Game 3 Estrada
Game 4 Price
Game 5 Stroman

and skip Dickey all-together. Price would be pitching game 4 on 3 days rest, but that shouldn't be that big a problem for him depending how much he pitches in game 1.

Nah, it's statistically proven that guys pitching on short rest aren't nearly as effective as they are otherwise to a pretty significant degree. Dickey has had a good enough second half that he's probably still a better pitcher than Price at 80% (or whatever he would be on short rest).

You might roll the dice if you are down 2-1, but even then the Jays are likely facing a guy like Colby Lewis in game 4 so I think the better play is to trust your offense to tee off on a bum like that and go with a fully rested Price in game 5 (against a fully rested Hamels).

[The Big Chill]

Jays Journal is saying Estrada will start before Dickey.

[Jiggy_12]

@Wilnerness590: If #Bluejays are down 2-1 going into Game 4, don't be surprised if Price gets that start over Dickey.

[JiriHrdina]

Has the 25 man roster been named yet?

[whosurnabby]

Colby Rasmus is on his usual hot streak...smokes one out of Yankee Stadium 1-0 Astros!

[transplant99]

Yeah it looks like it will be Price, Stroman, Estrada, Dickey according to SN.

[The Big Chill]

Has the 25 man roster been named yet?

It was just finalized recently. No surprises really. It's includes Loup, Pompey, and Carrera.

[Inferno]

It was just finalized recently. No surprises really. It's includes Loup, Pompey, and Carrera.

Just for visual reference:

http://www.tsn.ca/blue-jays-set-alds-roster-and-rotation-1.372978

Pitchers: David Price, Marcus Stroman, Marco Estrada, R.A. Dickey, Roberto Osuna, Brett Cecil, Aaron Sanchez, Mark Lowe, LaTroy Hawkins, Liam Hendriks, Aaron Loup.

Catchers: Russell Martin, Dioner Navarro.

Infielders: Edwin Encarnacion, Justin Smoak, Chris Colabello, Ryan Goins, Troy Tulowitzki, Josh Donaldson, Cliff Pennington.

Outfielders: Jose Bautista, Kevin Pillar, Ben Revere, Dalton Pompey, Ezequiel Carrera.

[Roof-Daddy]

That was my guess at the roster. Nailed it. Haha

[GirlySports]

why are we talking about if we're down 1-2 scenarios?

Gonna be a SWEEEEEEEEEP!

[Mathgod]

Jays vs Rangers in the first round. Rangers are peaking right now and pose a real threat to the Jays. Jays have the better team but the Rangers are riding a wave of momentum heading into the playoffs. Should be a close series. I think it goes the full 5 games. In the end, the Jays may crumble under the pressure due to their lack of playoff experience. I say Rangers take it in 5, but then again with Price pitching in game 5 it's going to be tough for the Rangers to win that game. It's all going to depend on whether or not the Jays get the timely hits and runs when they need them.

[whosurnabby]

Jays vs Rangers in the first round. Rangers are peaking right now and pose a real threat to the Jays. Jays have the better team but the Rangers are riding a wave of momentum heading into the playoffs. Should be a close series. I think it goes the full 5 games. In the end, the Jays may crumble under the pressure due to their lack of playoff experience. I say Rangers take it in 5, but then again with Price pitching in game 5 it's going to be tough for the Rangers to win that game. It's all going to depend on whether or not the Jays get the timely hits and runs when they need them.
I'll pull off a classic baseball quote for the people who are new to this whole postseason baseball thing: "Momentum is the next days starting pitcher."

Also last ten games for both teams:
Toronto 6-4
Texas 5-5

Momentum doesn't exist in this sport. It's baseball.

[GirlySports]

Cant see how the Rangers are hot. They nearly let the Angels back into the race.

[Sainters7]

Thought game 1 was gonna be around 3-4pm, figured I'd catch the end at a pub after work. But I see it's actually 1:30 now, ridiculous. What is it with Americans and their deep fondness for midday sports? I'll never understand it.


Posted from Calgarypuck.com App for Android

[JayP]

I'll pull off a classic baseball quote for the people who are new to this whole postseason baseball thing: "Momentum is the next days starting pitcher."

Also last ten games for both teams:
Toronto 6-4
Texas 5-5

Momentum doesn't exist in this sport. It's baseball.

Completely agree. On the same topic, here's a great article that links to a bunch of studies that disprove playoff cliches (including "hot" teams going into the postseason:
http://grantland.com/the-triangle/mlb-playoff-myths-to-ignore/

Another good one to note is the myth of small ball being the key to winning in the postseason. Zaun was already going on about it last night (ironically in a game where the Astros scored two of their three runs on solo HRs).

[SuperMatt18]

Yeah the whole small ball thing is only half true.

You need to be able to get on-base in the postseason, it doesn't mean you need to play small ball but it means you can't have a bunch of guys who only hit HRs but can't get on base.

The thing that the Jays have going for them is that they can get on base, and they have guys that still have power but still have decent averages. The depth on the roster also means that you can't pitch around anybody in the lineup.

That is what makes the Jays a dangerous team.

[TheAlpineOracle]

Yeah the whole small ball thing is only half true.

You need to be able to get on-base in the postseason, it doesn't mean you need to play small ball but it means you can't have a bunch of guys who only hit HRs but can't get on base.

The thing that the Jays have going for them is that they can get on base, and they have guys that still have power but still have decent averages. The depth on the roster also means that you can't pitch around anybody in the lineup.

That is what makes the Jays a dangerous team.

Even the guys on the Jays with less than stellar batting averages, have excellent eyes, and strong OBS as a result. Bautista only bat .248 or something like that, but he gets on base a lot from walks. Same with Tulo.

[SuperMatt18]

Yup, for a team with so much power Toronto also had the highest OBP as a result, coming in at .340 which is 12 bps higher then the next closest team.

They can also pitch well with the 7th best team WHIP in baseball (2nd among AL playoff teams).

There ability to get on base at a high clip, while also having the pitching to keep things tight by limiting base runners is what makes them so dangerous.

They get all the hype for their offense and power bats but this team is dangerous because they are well rounded offensively and defensively.

[Enoch Root]

Yup, for a team with so much power Toronto also had the highest OBP as a result, coming in at .340 which is 12 bps higher then the next closest team.

They can also pitch well with the 7th best team WHIP in baseball (2nd among AL playoff teams).

There ability to get on base at a high clip, while also having the pitching to keep things tight by limiting base runners is what makes them so dangerous.

They get all the hype for their offense and power bats but this team is dangerous because they are well rounded offensively and defensively.

Price was only here for the 2nd half, and Stroman for the stretch. Plus, I don't care much what happened in April or May.

So I like to look at how they fared after the all-star break. Here are the AL rankings for team pitching stats in the 2nd half (team / ERA / WHIP / AVG / OBP / Runs / Hits):

TOR: 1st / 1st / 2nd / 1st / 1st / 2nd
HOU: 3rd / 3rd / 4th / 3rd / 2nd / 3rd
KCR: 5th / 7th / 8th / 9th / 6th / 11th
TEX: 9th / 10th/ 10th/ 11th /9th / 7th

Would prefer that it was a 7 game series, to allow the Jays superiority enough time to exert itself.

But I like the matchup, regardless.

[Roof-Daddy]

So many factors all point to the Jays being the favorites.

Makes me really nervous.

My sports teams don't usually have a great track record as front runners.

[flames_fan_down_under]

So many factors all point to the Jays being the favorites.

Makes me really nervous.

My sports teams don't usually have a great track record as front runners.

Ya but those teams didn't have Number 20 playing for them did they?

Josh Donaldson is the x-factor in my opinion. Both teams have guys that can mash the ball (the Jays obviously more so) but the Jays have Donaldson who is the best player in baseball IMO.

[Mathgod]

Cant see how the Rangers are hot. They nearly let the Angels back into the race.
The Angels were absolutely on fire heading into that series against the Rangers having gone 7-1 in their 8 games prior (the one loss being by a single run) and were a hair's breath away from making the playoffs. Despite having to play the Angels in that final series, the Rangers went 8-5 in their last 13 games (the two losses to the Angels were by a single run each). Overall the Rangers are 33-17 in their last 50 games.

As for the Jays I just get the sense that maybe they've lost a little bit of their edge since clinching the AL East. They went 1-2 with a full lineup to finish off the season. Even if you disregard the 8 runs given up by Buehrle in the final game it's still a 4-3 loss to the Rays.

Having said this, I would love to be proven wrong and the Jays win the series handily.

[Mathgod]

Ya but those teams didn't have Number 20 playing for them did they?

Josh Donaldson is the x-factor in my opinion. Both teams have guys that can mash the ball (the Jays obviously more so) but the Jays have Donaldson who is the best player in baseball IMO.
I'd give that distinction to Bryce Harper. Best OPS in MLB (among qualifiers) by quite a margin.

[JayP]

These playoff broadcasts are brutal. Its 2015 - can I at least see what a batter's OBP is? Completely unacceptable.

[browna]

These playoff broadcasts are brutal. Its 2015 - can I at least see what a batter's OBP is? Completely unacceptable.

TBS is terrible, for sports and otherwise. Terrible announcers, tricks and graphics which are tacked on just to be different. "Flames" for the graphic for the pitcher, when he touches 95mph on the gun? Who cares how many pitches the current batter is seeing?

As for the Jays, should be interesting to see Gibby have to do in-game interviews.

Only things one is a bit worrying is basically 8 days off since a meaningful game, or for a game where it looked like the Jays gave a crap. Even the clincher against Baltimore was over early given the blow out, so the last "pressure" game that they treated as such, was Donaldson walking off at Skydome 12 days ago.

Plus, the adrenaline and "happy to be there" newness factor is always something to consider...in a short series, it's an issue. It's an issue for both teams but given the long layoff for the Jays and chance to think about things for a while and talk to the press about 22 years/the possibilites for the better part of the week, and then the blast of the fans tomorrow, getting the heart pumping, may mean it takes a while for the team to get focused in Game 1 (and hopefully no later than Game 1).

[Jets4Life]

FlwpU0-tPl4

[Caged Great]

You know what is frustrating. I have to set my PVR for the game. After 22 years, I'm going to miss it and Friday's game. I won't be on the computer for the next two days until late. Fun.


It is available on SNWHD though which is channel 223 for those on Shaw in Calgary.

[Antithesis]

I am PVRing it as well. After 22 years I don't care. Turning my phone off, turning the radio in my car off.

The wait ends today!! Let's go Blue Jays!

[Jiggy_12]

I can't believe this day is finally here.

Really surreal. Can't wait!

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Thankfully I'm off today, won't be leaving the coach for a few hours after the game starts. Been a long wait................

[V]

I'm taking the afternoon off. And I don't have to work tomorrow, so I'm free and clear for baseball!

[GirlySports]

funny thing is how people say it's been so long and the Jays haven't won a World Series since 1993.

In fact this is the 2nd most recent of the 8 teams remaining.

Cardinals - 2011
Blue Jays - 1993
Dodgers - 1988
Mets - 1986
Royals - 1985
Rangers - Never
Astros - Never
Cubs - Stone Age

[Jiggy_12]

Already seen a couple car flags this morning!

[troutman]

There are more exclamation marks in this thread than a Shania Twain album.

[Pagal4321]

I have tomorrow off but I heard Sportsnet is streaming the game online, so baseball at my desk today!

[Jiggy_12]

Game 1 lineup:

1. Revere
2. Donaldson
3. Bautista
4. Encarnacion
5. Tulowitzki
6. Smoak
7. Martin
8. Goins
9. Pillar

One of the hottest hitters in baseball in September batting 9th, and Russ freakin' Martin batting 7th. Have fun Rangers.

[V]

I'm pretty worried about Price and his 11 days of rest, but hopefully he isn't rusty.

[Mathgod]

funny thing is how people say it's been so long and the Jays haven't won a World Series since 1993.

In fact this is the 2nd most recent of the 8 teams remaining.

Cardinals - 2011
Blue Jays - 1993
Dodgers - 1988
Mets - 1986
Royals - 1985
Rangers - Never
Astros - Never
Cubs - Stone Age

True, but in terms of playoff droughts the Jays are one of the longest.

[V]

I want to see Antithesis' normal information for the series threads. How do the Jays hit against the probably starters for Texas? Just because you didn't start the thread doesn't mean you can slack off!

[SuperMatt18]

Roof closed even though weather is perfect.

Home record was much better with the roof open, so this actually hurts the home team.

MLB makes the decision...so that kind of sucks.

[Pagal4321]

Steven Brunt Essay.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/brunt-essay-blue-jays-postseason-dare-to-dream/

Just chills, I can't wait for this to start.

[CedarMeter]

Pumped!!

[puffnstuff]

What time does the game actually start? Ive seen 130, 137, and 200 as start times.

[jayswin]

funny thing is how people say it's been so long and the Jays haven't won a World Series since 1993.

In fact this is the 2nd most recent of the 8 teams remaining.

Cardinals - 2011
Blue Jays - 1993
Dodgers - 1988
Mets - 1986
Royals - 1985
Rangers - Never
Astros - Never
Cubs - Stone Age

That's a little disingenuous, I haven't seen anyone saying it's been so long since we won a world series, every single person I've heard has said it's been 23 years since they've got to see a playoff game.

[jayswin]

What time does the game actually start? Ive seen 130, 137, and 200 as start times.

3:37 eastern, 1:37 mountain.

[Jiggy_12]

What time does the game actually start? Ive seen 130, 137, and 200 as start times.

1:37 official but who knows, there's going to be a bunch of pre-game stuff that could delay that.

[Pagal4321]

OK now the important question, can I legally stream this game?

I can't find anything...

[starseed]

OK now the important question, can I legally stream this game?

I can't find anything...
Rogers and Telus customers apparently get access through the sportsnet mobile app.

[getbak]

Rogers and Telus customers apparently get access through the sportsnet mobile app.
If you're a Shaw cable customer who subscribes to Sportsnet, you can also access the game through their app.

I thought I saw a tweet earlier that the game would be streaming on sportsnet.ca too, but I just looked for it, and couldn't find it.

[CKPThunder]

If you're a Shaw cable customer who subscribes to Sportsnet, you can also access the game through their app.

I thought I saw a tweet earlier that the game would be streaming on sportsnet.ca too, but I just looked for it, and couldn't find it.

They are streaming the game on Sportsnet but like the app you need a qualified cable provider account.

www.sportsnet.ca/now

[Jiggy_12]

Nerves are starting to creep in.

[Pagal4321]

Don't like that they are raising a banner this afternoon.

[BsFaninCGY]

Pretty psyched for postseason ball for the first time since I was 11 years old! Working from home today and actually changed out of my sweats and into my Russ Martin tee and ball cap. Go Jays Go!

[bomber317]

Roof closed even though weather is perfect.

Home record was much better with the roof open, so this actually hurts the home team.

MLB makes the decision...so that kind of sucks.

Wonder why they would do that if the weather is clear.

Afternoon game, dome open would make the best atmosphere for the game.

[FlamesFanFromBC]

OK now the important question, can I legally stream this game?

I can't find anything...

I ordered MLB.tv a couple months ago for $25 US but I see they have the playoffs for $10 US

I will be watching on my phone at work today but also use at home with Roku and Samsung Smart TV app.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/subscriptions/index.jsp?&affiliateId=MLBTVREDIRECT

[Jiggy_12]

While I don't think it's a big deal, it's pretty ridiculous that they let let the Jays decide on the roof status all season, then take away the decision in the post season. Keep it consistent at least.

[psyang]

If you're a Shaw cable customer who subscribes to Sportsnet, you can also access the game through their app.

I thought I saw a tweet earlier that the game would be streaming on sportsnet.ca too, but I just looked for it, and couldn't find it.

Live streams (with a valid cable account) are at now.sportsnet.ca

EDIT: Beaten by CKPThunder above.

[dino7c]

they earned home field they should make the choice...just say the roof is broken

[jschick88]

Haven't had butterflies like this in a long time. Absolutely pumped. Go Jays Go!

[dino7c]

sounds quiet...sportset for ya

[Jiggy_12]

Now THAT is a cool way to do the national anthem. Wow.

[starseed]

Yeah, great anthem choice. Pretty surreal. Amazing atmosphere.

[Jiggy_12]

Kudos to the Jays for that. Chilling.

[puffnstuff]

So it was or wasnt George Canyon?

[Inferno]

I thought I saw a tweet earlier that the game would be streaming on sportsnet.ca too, but I just looked for it, and couldn't find it.

You just have to go to Video and Watch Live and then log in to whatever provider you use.

[FLAMESRULE]

No Buck + Pat?? WTF...

[dino7c]

fox sports? playoff rights I guess

[Weitz]

Breakdown of the anthem? What happened?

I need a phone call to come in so I can leave the office to go watch...

[Jiggy_12]

Price breathes a heavy sigh of relief as Pillar brings in a deep line drive.

[Enoch Root]

so pumped (and want to stop thinking about last night's game)

let's go Blue Jays!!!!!!

[KootenayFlamesFan]

I kinda miss the pitch graph thingy Sportsnet has.

[Enoch Root]

Choo was their toughest out last time these guys played

[Hemi-Cuda]

So why is Sportsnet using the American feed instead of doing it themselves?

[Enoch Root]

I kinda miss the pitch graph thingy Sportsnet has.

totally

feels like the 90s watching without it

[Jiggy_12]

The first time Oh Canada was sung in the World Series was 1992 against Atlanta and it was sung by Canadian Singer Michael Burgess who also happened to pass away just over a week ago.

They played the audio of him singing that anthem 23 years ago. Very very cool moment.

[Hemi-Cuda]

fox sports? playoff rights I guess

TV rights don't carry across borders. Fox earns no advertising money from Canadian broadcasts, this is just Sportsnet being lazy

[Jiggy_12]

Price having early command issues. Back to back walks. Not good

[Hemi-Cuda]

Price looking rusty after all that rest, really hope he can get settled down after this inning

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Price is just off a little bit. Guess that might happen after being off fro 11 days. Just needs to relax.

[nik-]

great crowd ... but Price isn't on so far :S

[corporatejay]

I need the strike zone graphic. I have no idea how much he's missing by. It's driving me nuts.

[Enoch Root]

can't fricking believe there's no pitch tracker

[Jiggy_12]

Double play!!!! Alright Bats lets go!

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Yes! Double play, just what the doctor ordered.

[Enoch Root]

Price is fine, relax everyone

[dsavillian]

I kinda miss the pitch graph thingy Sportsnet has.

mlb.com has a good one, but it's usually behind the tv broadcast

[KelVarnsen]

Double play!!

[Jiggy_12]

Price is fine, relax everyone

Relax is not a verb I will be able to do today.

[V]

Right on, dp. Time to get some hits.

[Hemi-Cuda]

Also just an FYI for anyone watching the Sportsnet Now online broadcast, it's delayed quite a bit vs. the TV broadcast. I read Jiggy's comment about the 2nd walk when the count was 2-0 on the online stream, so if you don't want to be spoiled only read this thread during breaks

[Enoch Root]

Relax is not a verb I will be able to do today.

that's the thing with baseball - all the anticipation of waiting for the next play promotes nervousness.

At least with hockey there is flow that keeps you busy.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Man, Donaldson just missed hitting that thing a mile, great pitch to hit.

[Frequitude]

that's the thing with baseball - all the anticipation of waiting for the next play promotes nervousness.

At least with hockey there is flow that keeps you busy.That's why MLB playoffs are by far the best of the big 4.

[Jbo]

Oh god my nerves. Don't know how the players do it

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Damn, some good pitches to hit. Don't think the Jays will be getting shut out by Gallardo today.

[puffnstuff]

Who else votes the Rangers pitcher for Worst Beard Ever?

[Enoch Root]

That's why MLB playoffs are by far the best of the big 4.

nothing better than hockey playoffs

but baseball is awesome too

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Steeeeeeeeriike three.

Price looks better to start the 2nd.

[Enoch Root]

that k should settle Price in

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Steeeeeeeeeeeerike three!

That's better!

[Enoch Root]

how was that not a strike? - he went after it

[KootenayFlamesFan]

I thought the same thing.

[Jiggy_12]

Fans are going bananas as Price strikes out the side!

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Steeeeeeeeeeeeerike three!!

Strikes out the side, very nice.

[Enoch Root]

boom!

now it's time for EE to get this party going

[MacDaddy77]

where can I listen online or radio?

[SuperMatt18]

Holy crap it seems loud in there, can tell they are muting the crowd sound a bit on the broadcast

[V]

Yeah, I think Price will be okay.

[Acey]

Holy crap it seems loud in there, can tell they are muting the crowd sound a bit on the broadcast

I thought maybe the fans wouldn't be able to keep up that insane level of excitement for the whole game. Definitely wrong. This is an unreal atmosphere.

[Hemi-Cuda]

Well Price seems settled in nicely now

[Enoch Root]

so close

[KootenayFlamesFan]

EE just missed that one. Gallardo is playing with fire here, the Jays will light him up soon if he keeps pitching like this.

[Jiggy_12]

Gallardo getting away with some very hittable pitches.

[nik-]

EE just missed that one. Gallardo is playing with fire here, the Jays will light him up soon if he keeps pitching like this.

was basically typing up this exact same thing

[V]

The bar went crazy when EE made contact. Maybe next time.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

I have a good feeling about the offense when they go through a 2nd time.

[The Fonz]

If it hasn't been mentioned already, you can watch a free live stream, no register necessary, on youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wosFMrmuk2w&feature=youtu.be

[Inferno]

Watching the game here at work is as painful as the Flames game last night. I don't think I can go 10 seconds without it freezing.

[SuperMatt18]

Stream is good on my end (Sportsnet Now)

[The Fonz]

Watching the game here at work is as painful as the Flames game last night. I don't think I can go 10 seconds without it freezing.

Same here. I had to drop the quality to 144p on the youtube feed to make the freezing stop.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Damn, 1-0 Rangers. Bah.

[dino7c]

announcers are very texas oriented...and complain about the turf

home field advantage brah

[KootenayFlamesFan]

I miss Buck and Pat. These guys are annoying me. The turf is different, we all get it.

[SuperMatt18]

announcers are very texas oriented

It's an American feed. They are going to cater to the American audience, which is probably mostly texas fans (pretty big market).

Poor form by Sportsnet to not have their own guys do the game when it's the first playoff game in 22 years.

[Enoch Root]

I think they have been very balanced

[Enoch Root]

but I would much rather have Buck and Pat

####

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Bah, 2-0 Texas.

[Jiggy_12]

Texas up 2-0 due to smart aggressive baserunning.

[Enoch Root]

twice they started the runner and twice it avoided the DP and twice the guy came around to score

[Blaster86]

Price is awful.

There. Someone said it.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Beltre looks like he really wrenched his back on that swing. And he's staying in?

[dino7c]

I think they have been very balanced

they just don't know as much about the Jays...you think we could get our own broadcast in Canada FFS

[Enoch Root]

finally

[The Fonz]

Did I just hear him say, his back might be stiff from the astro-turf?

[JayP]

Time for the offense to do something. Gallardo is hanging pitches out there. Its the playoffs - you have to make him pay when you have the chance.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Did I just hear him say, his back might be stiff from the astro-turf?

I thought I heard that, but then assumed I heard wrong. They really really don't like the turf.

[Hemi-Cuda]

So I wonder what Price we'll see for the 4th. Just when he looks unbeatable in the 2nd, he floats some softies out for easy hits in the 3rd

[Enoch Root]

time for the bottom of the order to get things going

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Take some pitches this inning, don't swing at garbage.

[chummer]

I thought I heard that, but then assumed I heard wrong. They really really don't like the turf.

Harold Reynolds especially, he's brought it up a couple times.

[chummer]

Hey Kenny, the second t in Toronto is silent.

[Enoch Root]

I thought I heard that, but then assumed I heard wrong. They really really don't like the turf.

there is a reason it's been all but eliminated in baseball

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Man, Beltre was crying as they took him out. Gotta give him credit for trying.

[Blaster86]

whole team looks like junk on both sides of the ball.

[Enoch Root]

Take some pitches this inning, don't swing at garbage.

this - they are not showing the patience they usually do

[Finger Cookin]

Holy god, I'm tired of this Fox guy rambling on about the turf.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

there is a reason it's been all but eliminated in baseball

Fair enough, but they won't shut up about it. I'd rather them talk about the Jays or something.

[MacDaddy77]

Beltre is out of game? Thats gotta help the jays

[Radically Red]

What is with these guys giving easy outs. Not a lot of Patients. Need to drive the pitch count up.

[Jiggy_12]

Gallardo is perfect through 3.

Jays need a spark.

[Enoch Root]

36 pitches through 3 - not good enough

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Good gravy Pillar, that was almost in the dirt.

They need to settle down second time through. Trying to do too much with pitches not in the strike zone.

[Enoch Root]

Price needs a quick inning here

[TheAlpineOracle]

Good job they are well rested.

[JayP]

Jays are completely unprepared. 36 pitches through 3 innings for a guy who struggles to pitch 5 full innings most nights. Show some patience and get some base runners instead of helping a mediocre pitcher out. All this in hitters counts too.

[dino7c]

this is sounding like the Flames thread last night lol

[Pagal4321]

Jesus guys, it's 3 innings. No need to go all nuclear yet.

[Hemi-Cuda]

Jays looking like a bunch of rookies in their first big league game. I know there's not a lot of playoff experience here, but damn act like you've been here before

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Steeeeeerike three.

Good start.

[Blaster86]

Jesus guys, it's 3 innings. No need to go all nuclear yet.

They look straight up awful. This is going to be a quick series if this is the Jays we're gonna get.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

That's not a strike? Yikes.

[Jiggy_12]

That pitch was actually right down the middle. Ball?

[MRCboicgy]

C'mon quick inning for Price here.

[Enoch Root]

They look straight up awful. This is going to be a quick series if this is the Jays we're gonna get.

It's 3 innings. Are you new to baseball?

Relax

[Jiggy_12]

Alright nice quick inning there, top of the order coming up. Let's make a dent here.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Quick inning, that's better. Now lets' get a hit or two here.

[Pagal4321]

They look straight up awful. This is going to be a quick series if this is the Jays we're gonna get.

It's been THREE innings. 1/3 of the game. Long ways to go.

[Hemi-Cuda]

It's pretty pathetic that for the first post season game the jays are in for 22 years, Rogers can't even setup their own home broadcast for the game. I'm really tired of hearing about the turf from Americans who can't pronounce Toronto correctly

[KootenayFlamesFan]

There you go friggin annoying announcers. Gallardo is awesome, putting on a clinic, no hits for the Jays yet.............Revere gets a base hit.

[MRCboicgy]

Revere starts it off. Time to bring rain.

[Jiggy_12]

Revere reaches and now 1 on for the Gauntlet.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

Taking pitches.................finally.

[KootenayFlamesFan]

1st and 2nd, none out. Great start, c'mon Jose.

[Jiggy_12]

2 men on for Bautista after the Donaldson walk.

And this ump has some kinda strike zone. About 4 very odd calls so far

[Blaster86]

It's been THREE innings. 1/3 of the game. Long ways to go.

Nope they'll never even get a base runner this series. They're bad.

Those two you think you see are imaginary. You're drunk.

[Enoch Root]

come on Bautista, make him work

[Hemi-Cuda]

Ump is calling a really low strike zone, or at least I think he is. I really miss that pitch tracker

[Enoch Root]

####

[Jiggy_12]

Donaldson got rocked. Uh oh