For the first time since July 31, 2016, the Toronto Blue Jays are at the top of the American League East in July.

Thanks to three consecutive wins to start the series against the New York Yankees, a 5-4 victory, a 12-5 win, and an 11-9 win, the Jays have moved into a tie at the top of the AL East with a 48-38 record. With a win on Thursday evening, the Jays could move into sole possession of first place, something that seemed unimaginable when they were eight games back of the Yankees on May 28th.

That said, the Yankees aren’t just going to roll over and let the Blue Jays sweep a four-game series, as Clarke Schmidt is set to start for them. This season, Schmidt has a 3.09 ERA and is one of the Yankees’ better starters.

The Blue Jays have Chris Bassitt starting, and he’s looking to rebound after a tough start last Saturday. Against the Boston Red Sox, Bassitt allowed nine runs, eight earned, in two innings pitched. It’s the Blue Jays’ only loss in the last seven games.

As for their offence, Bo Bichette is not in the starting lineup for another game after being scratched before Monday’s game. He’ll be available off the bench, as will Andres Gimenez, who was pulled from Wednesday’s game because of a jammed ankle.

Nathan Lukes bats lead-off, followed by George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The Jays’ middle three are comprised of Addison Barger, Alejandro Kirk, and Ernie Clement, while their bottom three are Will Wagner, Davis Schneider, and Leo Gimenez.

Schneider has been terrific since being recalled on June 1, as he’s slashing .286/.400/.548 with three home runs in 50 plate appearances for a 168 wRC+. In Wednesday’s game, he hit two home runs.

Let’s set up Thursday’s game!

Toronto Blue Jays – Chris Bassitt:  7-4 record, 4.29 ERA, 94.1 IP, 93 SO, 25 BB

New York Yankees – Clarke Schmidt: 4-4 record, 3.09 ERA, 75.2 IP, 93 SO, 28 BB