What happened: Kazuma Okamoto carried a hot stretch at the plate into Toronto's series opener against the Houston Astros. The six-time NPB All-Star, in his first MLB season after signing with Toronto, has been one of the more productive bats in the lineup, including a recent multi-homer day that pushed his season power numbers higher.

Why it matters: Okamoto's quick adjustment to major league pitching is a meaningful storyline for a Toronto club hovering right around .500 and trying to climb in a tight race. His production has also made him a central name in the AL third base All-Star conversation, raising the stakes on every series.

What to watch: Watch whether Okamoto keeps driving the ball as the series with Houston continues, and how his numbers move the next round of AL All-Star voting.