The Yankees go for a sweep of the Blue Jays this afternoon as Ricky Romero takes on Andy Pettitte. Since peaking at 27-14 on May 18th, the Jays are 15-27 and just one game over .500. Ricky Romero pitched the last time the Blue Jays won. He’s pitched six consecutive quality starts and hasn’t allowed a run in 20 innings. Pettitte’s starts have been up and down lately, his last seven being alternately good and bad. He’s due for a bad one this time.

Cincinnati moves from one first place team to another as they travel to Philadelphia to face Cole Hamels. Johnny Cueto takes the mound for the Reds. Cueto road numbers make a strong bid for his Cy Young candidacy. He’s 6-2 with a 2.14 ERA (3rd in the NL) away from Great American Ballpark, giving up many fewer hits on the road. Could Cole Hamels just be suffering from bad luck? His strikeouts, walks and home runs are pretty much in line with last year’s numbers. His batting average allowed in 85 points higher, however. Is he making more mistakes in the strike zone, or are balls in play just finding holes? His line drive percentage is up this year, indicating he may be making more mistakes.

The best game in the west takes place in Anaheim where the Rangers send Kevin Millwood against Jered Weaver. Millwood has been effective against left-handed batters in terms of batting average, but compared to right handers he trades hits for walks. Weaver has been deadly in Anaheim this season, going 5-1 with a 1.83 ERA. His K/BB is over four at home, less than two on the road.

Finally, Florida trails the Giants by two games in the wild card race as they open a three-game series in San Francisco. Sean West battles Matt Cain. West is an example of a Tommy John/Tom Glavine lefty, someone who gets righties out. They’re batting just .211 againt West this season with little power. Cain is one of two Cy Young candidates on the Giants. Matt also posts a reverse platoon split, with lefties hitting .212 against him and righties .254.

Enjoy!