Blue Jays Struggle with Starting Rotation Consistency Amid Playoff Push

The Toronto Blue Jays' starting rotation has struggled significantly this season, posting a 4.63 ERA, which ranks as the fifth-highest in the majors, hindering the team's efforts to surpass the New York Yankees. Key veterans Chris Bassitt, José Berríos, and Kevin Gausman have failed to deliver consistent performances, with Bassitt enduring a tough recent stretch after a strong start, and Berríos grappling with a high WHIP and inconsistency. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers heavily rely on Freddie Freeman, who, despite an ongoing ankle injury from an off-field accident, continues to perform at a high level with a .370 batting average, 9 home runs, and 34 RBIs, helping keep the Dodgers atop the NL West. Freeman's injury is managed with daily therapy and load adjustments, allowing him to play through pain, although the team's recent loss to the Angels highlighted the challenge of maintaining competitive play amid physical limitations. These situations underscore the critical importance of health and consistency in pitching and hitting for teams contending in the MLB this season.