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Up next: Blue Jays

By KEVIN KELLY

© St. Petersburg Times,
published September 27, 2001

7:15 tonight
7:15 Friday
4:15 Saturday
1:15 Sunday

THE PAST WEEK: The Blue Jays were 3-4 against Baltimore, Tampa Bay and Cleveland and had played three consecutive one-run games, winning two, before Tuesday's 11-7 loss to the Indians.

SCOUTING REPORT: Toronto needed to win nine of its final 11 games before Wednesday just to match last season's 83-79 record. After going 42-46 in the first half, the Blue Jays are trying to reach .500 for the first time since May 30. Needless to say, it has been a disappointing season. A potent lineup has sometimes been hurt by a shaky pitching staff. Shortstop Alex Gonzalez is having a career year while Carlos Delgado, Shannon Stewart and Raul Mondesi can change the outcome of a game with one swing.

ALL-TIME SERIES: The Jays have won 9 of 15 against the Rays this season, are 4-2 at Tropicana Field and lead the all-time series 31-21. The Rays won two of three last weekend.

CONNECTIONS: The Rays have Toronto to thank for their starting second baseman. Brent Abernathy was acquired in last season's trade that sent pitchers Steve Trachsel and Mark Guthrie to Toronto.

WHO'S HOT: Second baseman Homer Bush, who has been slowed by injuries all season, was hitting .458 with five RBI in seven games before Wednesday.

WHO'S NOT: Reliever Paul Quantrill has struggled after a magnificent first half. He has an 11.05 ERA in his past 71/3 innings.

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