The Toronto Blue Jays are on a remarkable winning streak, currently riding six consecutive victories after a 6-5 win against the Tampa Bay Rays. With a record of 89-62, the team is not only solidifying its playoff position but also making a bid for franchise history.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the Blue Jays are focused on securing a playoff spot, competing for the division title, and aiming for one of the top two seeds in the American League. Their current performance has put them in a strong position to achieve these goals.
This season marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, which has been in existence since 1977. The Blue Jays are on track to complete the largest season-to-season improvement in their history. Previously, the biggest leap occurred between 1979 and 1980, when the team improved from 53 to 67 wins. The current trajectory, however, is much more impressive, as the Blue Jays are poised to go from last place to a potential playoff berth.
"We’ve put ourselves in a pretty good position," said infielder Ernie Clement. "You’ve got to finish strong, and I think we’re going to do that."
With 11 games remaining, the Blue Jays have already achieved the ninth-most wins in franchise history. Two more victories would tie them for seventh place on the all-time list. The franchise record of 99 wins, set in 1985, remains a possibility, though it would require an exceptional finish to the season.
Reaching 93 wins would match the most victories in a season this century, while 95 wins would tie them with the legendary 1993 team that won back-to-back World Series titles. The 1987 and 1992 teams each recorded 96 wins.
The Blue Jays' success this season is attributed to a combination of talent, determination, and strong team chemistry. "I think it has to do with character and the kind of guys that we have in our clubhouse," Clement noted. "We just brought in guys who want to win, and that’s their main focus. We’ve developed a great bond, a lot of team chemistry, and we’re just all on the same page right now."
Historically, the Blue Jays have advanced to the American League Championship Series (ALCS) five times after winning 90 or more games in a season, including during their two World Series championship years.
As the excitement builds, players remain focused on the task at hand. "Not yet," said Vlad Guerrero Jr. when asked if this is the most exciting season he has experienced with the team. "Everybody in here is having fun and enjoying each other. But the journey’s not done."
With the playoffs in sight, the Blue Jays continue their pursuit of franchise records and a successful postseason run.