5 postseason keys for the Toronto Blue Jays

Jul 31, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) celebrates scoring a run with catcher Russell Martin (55) during the eighth inning in a game against the Kansas City Royals at Rogers Centre. The Toronto Blue Jays won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

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Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Continue to get strong outings from R.A. Dickey and Marcus Stroman

Toronto’s pitching resurgence hasn’t all been due to the arrival of David Price, as a couple other members of the rotation have been strong in the second half. That needs to continue for the Blue Jays to be successful in the postseason, as they will need more than one effective starter to win a playoff series.

Dickey has had the biggest turnaround and will almost certainly be the Blue Jays No. 2 in the postseason. After posting a 4.87 ERA in the first half, Dickey has a mark of 2.95 in the second half.

Starting a knuckleballer in the playoffs is a risky move, but Dickey has the potential to shut down an opponent in any given outing. Dickey has allowed two runs or fewer in four of his five starts this September, which Toronto will certainly take in a postseason series.

Stroman is the real wild card of the Blue Jays rotation and could make all the difference come October. After suffering a torn ACL in Spring Training, Stroman was able to recover quickly and has looked excellent in his three starts this season.

The 24-year-old has flashed serious ace potential in his young career and could get even better as he gets back to full speed. If Dickey and Stroman continue their current form, the Blue Jays will boast arguably the best playoff rotation in the AL.

Next: Get the bullpen back on track

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