CC, Yanks look to right ship vs. Jays … After getting poor starting pitching to begin this series, the New York Yankees are turning to their red-hot ace to try to slow down the surging Toronto Blue Jays — with or without major league home run leader Jose Bautista.

Pregame notes: Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?  —  From the very moment that Russell Martin suggested the Blue Jays were stealing signs on Thursday, the Yankees have insisted that sign stealing is perfectly fair as long as it takes place between the lines.

Martin blames himself if Blue Jays knew signs  —  TORONTO — Yankees catcher Russell Martin claimed the Blue Jays were relaying signs on Thursday, Toronto skipper John Farrell said he wasn't aware of it, and Yankees manager Joe Girardi had no comment.  —  Here's one thing they all agreed on, though: Stealing signs is part of baseball.

Marmol loses closer's job for time being  —  CHICAGO — For the second straight game, Carlos Marmol was unable to convert a save situation and protect a two-run lead.  Cubs manager Mike Quade said the right-hander will take some time to work on his mechanics and has lost his job as the closer for now.

Orioles Agree To Extend J.J. Hardy  —  The Orioles and J.J. Hardy have agreed in principle to a three-year contract extension, reports Jeff Zrebiec of The Baltimore Sun (all Twitter links).  Dan Connolly of The Baltimore Sun says the deal is worth between $22-22.5MM and includes no-trade protection to eight teams.