The Tampa Bay Rays are facing another season of high expectations while the Toronto Blue Jays are trying to revive the franchise after sitting at the bottom of the American League for the past few seasons. The Rays are expected to reach October. The Blue Jays would consider that a blessing. Is this the season that everything works out for both teams? It all starts with getting a win on Opening Day.
Tampa Bay once again enters the season with David Price as their go-to guy. After facing trade rumors for most of the offseason, the pitcher signed a one-year deal to remain with the team. Now the former Cy Young winner will face off against another Cy Young winner, R.A. Dickey, in an Opening Day mathcup.
The Blue Jays would like to forget the past few seasons, especially 2013. Last season was brutal in terms of injuries to key starters. They finished the season in last place and hope that things can turn around as they are early season picks to contend for a championship this year. It all starts with Dickey who went 14-13 last season with a 4.21 ERA.
The Blue Jays have a batting lineup that could really make some noise when healthy. Jose Reyes, Edwin Encarnacion and offseason acquisition Dioner Navarro can really push Toronto to a streak of success.The Blue Jays wanted to sign Ervin Santana to help the pitching rotation, but after missing out, Dickey will be expected to step up and improve.
Only the Cardinals, Yankees and Phillies have reached the postseason more than the Rays. This year is expected to remain the same despite their significantly smaller pay roll. It all starts with Price who was 9-4 with a 2.53 ERA last season after spending time on the disabled list. He is playing off a one-year deal worth $14 million and will be anchoring one of the best pitching rotations in the league. After acquiring closer Gran Balfour and reliever Heath Bell, the Rays are looking stronger than ever and should have no issues following up on expectations.
