Blue Jays and Cardinals Begin Crucial Series Ahead of Trade Deadline

The St. Louis Cardinals face the Toronto Blue Jays in a three-game series that could influence their strategies as the trade deadline approaches.

<p>The St. Louis Cardinals are set to play against the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night, kicking off a three-game series that coincides with the upcoming trade deadline.</p><p>Both teams are vying for a wild-card berth in their respective leagues, needing to surpass several competitors in the final two months of the season. A sweep by either team could impact their decisions regarding potential trades before the deadline.</p><p>The Blue Jays recently completed a 3-3 road trip, winning their last game against the Washington Nationals 5-2. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are coming off a 4-2 loss in 10 innings to the Chicago Cubs, concluding a disappointing 2-6 homestand. Toronto's Dylan Cease is expected to start the series opener, while the Cardinals will send Kyle Leahy to the mound. Additionally, the Cardinals announced that Quinn Mathews will make his major league debut on Saturday.</p>