Athletics face Blue Jays in series with American League Wild Card implications

The Athletics begin a series against the Blue Jays this week as Toronto attempts to secure an American League Wild Card berth. Toronto enters the week one game behind the Cleveland Guardians, having recently climbed to a.500 record for the first time since late June. The Athletics come off a series win against the Seattle Mariners but remain outside of postseason contention. Jacob Lopez is scheduled to start for the Athletics on Monday against Cy Young contender Dylan Cease, followed by Jack Perkins facing José Soriano on Tuesday. The Blue Jays have transitioned to Louis Varland as their primary closer, while their offense relies on recent contributions from Brett Bateman. Despite injuries to multiple starters, the Athletics have outscored the Blue Jays since the All-Star break.

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