Toronto Blue Jays season preview 

New York Yankees v Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays missed the playoffs in 2017 with a 76-86 record after making it to the American League Championship Series in back-to-back seasons in 2015 and 2016. In order for Toronto to get back there, they are going to need a quality starting pitcher and timely hitting.

It won't be easy since they have to worry about the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox in the American League East. The Baltimore Orioles and the Tampa Bay Rays are also tough to play against in the AL East, even though Baltimore and Tampa Bay won't make it to the playoffs.

The Cleveland Indians and the Houston Astros will also be tough in the American League. That leaves one possible playoff spot in the American League and Toronto could claim it.

Marcus Stroman, J.A. Happ, Aaron Sanchez, Marco Estrada, and Jaime Garcia will be the starting pitchers for the Blue Jays. Roberto Osuna will be the Blue Jays closer. Toronto's bullpen can be shaky at times and maybe it will be more consistent this season.

The Toronto Blue Jays will not have Jose Bautista to start the season because he is still a free agent. Maybe they can still get a deal worked out before the season begins.

Toronto's projected line up is: (C) Russell Martin (1B) Justin Smoak (2B) Devon Travis (SS) Troy Tulowitzki (3B) Josh Donaldson (LF) Curtis Granderson (CF) Kevin Pillar (RF) Randal Crichuk (DH) Kendrys Morales

Key Backups: (C) Luke Maile, (IF) Yangervis Solarte, (IF) Aledmys Diaz, (OF) Steve Pearce, and (OF) Anthony Alford (third-ranked out of top 30 prospects in Blue Jays farm system according to MLB.com

Shortstop Troy Tulowitzki will not be ready for opening day with another injury and he could return before the end of April. Aledmys Diaz will start in his place until he comes back. Manager John Gibbons needs to get this team off on the right foot in 2018. Toronto's opening series will be at home against the New York Yankees from Thursday, March 29 through Sunday, April 1.