The set-up: This series features a number of interesting match-ups on the mound and this particular one is definitely one of them. For a number of different reasons though, I think this one favors the home side. The Jays send Marcus Stroman to the hill, while the A's hand the ball to Sean Manaea.


The pitchers: Stroman is so far 4-7 with a 5.20 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs off seven hits and a walk over 6.2 innings while striking out three in a win over the White Sox on Friday. Since coming off the DL Stroman has posted a 2.98 ERA, but note that he's still just 1-3 with a 5.01 ERA in all "day" games.


Manaea is so far 9-7 with a 3.46 ERA. He most recently allowed three earned runs off nine hits over five innings while striking out five over five innings in a loss to Colorado on Friday. Manaea has now allowed three earned runs or less in ten consecutive starts.


The pick: Manaea has been at his best at home as well this year with a 5-0, 2.95 ERA record and I think he carries that momentum over here. Stroman has looked better of late, but I think he finally takes a step back in this difficult venue. The price is right, play on Oakland.