Niemann vs. Blue Jays Hitting<\/strong><\/p>\nIt\u2019s been a very successful start of the season for Jeff Niemann. The right hander has yet to lose this season, going 5-0 in 10 starts so far. His 2.37 ERA is over a run better than his career average. A difference like that usually means the numbers will eventually even out, but that may not be the case with Niemann; he may be this good. The former first overall has improved every year since he\u2019s been in the majors, and what we\u2019re seeing now may be the Jeff Niemann that will dominate the Major Leagues for years to come.<\/p>\n
Niemann is going to have it tough against the surprisingly potent Toronto offense. Although the righty has already beaten Toronto this year, it was before the Blue Jay offense really began to click. The Jays lead the league in home runs as a team, and outfielder Jose Bautista leads all individual players in long-balls. In May, Toronto set a new franchise record for homers in a single month with 53. If you\u2019re\u00a0betting, note that this is the best offense Niemann has faced all season; it will be very interesting to see if he can continue his dominance.<\/p>\n
Tallet vs. Rays Hitting<\/strong><\/p>\nAlthough it\u2019s not 100% confirmed, most reports say that Brian Tallet will make his return from the DL Tuesday against Tampa Bay. Tallet hasn\u2019t pitched since April 17th<\/sup>, having been on the disabled list with an injured left arm. The lefty was shaky in his first three starts of the year, going 1-1 with a 6.11 ERA. Tallet is on a short leash with Toronto; there are plenty of young arms in the Jays system that will get their chance should Tallet stumble.