TORONTO BLUE JAYS (43-52, 4TH PLACE, AL EAST)

BIG PICTURE

Toronto got off to a respectable start and remained on the heels of first-place Boston for the first few weeks. Since then, not much has gone right. The organization’s lack of depth combined with many key injuries, along with closer Roberto Osuna’s suspension for domestic violence and catcher Russell Martin’s season-long slump, have made for an abysmal first half.

BEST PERFORMANCE

Yangervis Solarte, acquired in January from San Diego in exchange for two minor leaguers to improve Toronto’s versatility, has played all four infield positions and has been the designated hitter. He leads Toronto in several batting stats.

BIGGEST SURPRISE

After starting the season at Class AAA Buffalo (N.Y.), Teoscar Hernandez already has appeared in a career-high 76 games, including 45 starts in left field.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT

Toronto signed third baseman Josh Donaldson to a one-year, $23 million contract in January, a record one-year deal for an arbitration-eligible player. He is on the disabled list for the second time and is hitting .234 with five home runs.

TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST

The Jays would like to be a seller but don’t have much to sell. Left-hander J.A. Happ, their best trading chip, struggled in his last three starts before the break.

KEY SERIES

vs. Boston Red Sox Aug. 7-9

Maureen Mullen