Casey Fossum (0-0) vs. Scott Downs (0-0). 7:07 PM EST start.
Scott Downs' knee has recovered well since he injured it in spring training almost a week ago. Interestingly, his ERA's last season were nearly identical as a starter (4.30) and as a reliever (4.32). His performance last season was an unexpected success, as he posted good strikeout totals and proved himself worthy of a roster spot for 2006. I wouldn't be surprised if he makes the most of his opportunity and pitches well in A.J. Burnett's stead.
Tonight's Blue Jays lineup:
Johnson
Rios
Wells
Glaus
Overbay
Hillenbrand
Molina
Hill
McDonald
I'm a big proponent of starting McDonald over Adams when the opposing side features a left-handed starter. I'm still skeptical about batting Rios second, but he proved me wrong in the first game, so he warrants a second chance at the very least.
Crawford
Cantu
Gomes
Huff
Wigginton
Lee
Hall
Green
Rollins
The bottom half of that lineup should be exploited by the Blue Jays' pitching. I truly expect a fine performance from Downs tonight. I really have to stop putting my neck on the line with these predictions. Oh well, let's hope I don't learn the hard way. Go Jays (!).