Not since the early 90's has there been THIS much excitement about the Toronto Blue Jays. Their off season moves have the entire baseball world talking about their commitment to winning. General Manager JP Richardi has said for years that they would clean up (former GM) Gord Ash's mess, build through their farm system and develop within. Then, when they felt close - go out and aquire talented players.So far the Jays have signed the top free agent pitcher of 2005/2006, AJ Burnett, a terrific left handed closer in BJ Ryan and first baseman Lyle Overbay.
Burnett is a guy who many feel will be the next Roy Oswalt in baseball, which would give the Jays two supreme studs at the top of their rotation (obviously Halladay being the other), plus rookie standout Gustavo Chacin, veteran lefty Ted Lilly and the inning eater Josh Towers. Not to mention the 5 star pitching prospects on the farm like Dustin McGowan.
The aquisition of Ryan and Burnett makes Miguel Batista (former starter / current closer) a very tradeable and attractive commodity. He could probably be packaged to bring back another power hitter.
Overbay at first will be a defensive improvement over Hinske - but I don't think Overbay has enough power to play first.
There are still rumors flying about Adam Dunn, Manny Ramirez or Bobby Abreu coming to Toronto by trade or free agency.
I have to admit - I am jacked about the Jays.
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