Hot Guardians Look to Continue Win Streak Against Blue Jays: August 12 Betting Preview
The AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians (59-52) face the Toronto Blue Jays (60-50) at Rogers Centre on Friday, August 12 at 7:07 p.m. ET.
The Guardians enter on a five-game winning streak after sweeping the Tigers. Cleveland's pitching has been exceptional, allowing just 8 runs over their last 5 games, though their offense has been modest with 17 runs scored during that span.
The Blue Jays have lost 3 of their last 4 games, including two straight against the Orioles. Toronto boasts one of MLB's top offenses, ranking in the top 5 in batting average, OBP, slugging percentage, and runs scored. However, their pitching has struggled lately, giving up 23 runs in their last 4 games.
Pitching Matchup:
- Cleveland: Cal Quantrill (8-5, 3.88 ERA)
- Toronto: Jose Berrios (8-4, 5.19 ERA)
Betting Odds:
- Blue Jays (-167) favorites
- Guardians +1 run underdogs
- Over/Under: 8.5 runs
Key Notes:
- James Karinchak (unvaccinated) will miss the series in Toronto
- Guardians lead AL Central by 1.5 games
- Toronto ranks 17th in team ERA this season
- Berrios, a former Twin, has historically faced Cleveland often
The surging Guardians could be poised for an upset against the favored but recently struggling Blue Jays in what projects to be a competitive series opener.