Bobby Cox NL's Manager Of The Year--Lesson Here For Jays '..

During the NL playoffs in which Atlanta was narrowly eliminated
a TV commentator made the observation during one game that the
team Atlanta fielded consisted of players who had played for no
no other ML team, meaning that they were all products of the the
Braves's system.

Manager Bobby Cox no doubt had much input into their selection and
development. Yes, the Braves did not win the World Series or even
the Braves' pennant but they were a strong contender in 2005 as they have
been for the last 15 or 16 years. The Jays should try to emulate the
Braves' strategy as Toronto has gone nowhere in the last 12 years during
which they have never been in contention.

So here is my suggestion for Gibbon's and Ricciardi's lineup for opening
day 2006, even through it is premature discounting the possibilities of
injuries etc.

For catchers: Guillermo Quiroz and Robinson Diaz
First base and fourth outfielder: John Ford Griffin
Second base: Orlando Hudson
Shortstop: Russ Adams
Third Base: Aaron Hill
Left field: Gabe Gross
Center field: Vernon Wells
Right field; Alex Rios

Pitching staff starters: Doc Halladay, Gustavo Chacin, Josh Towers,
Dustin McGowan, Sean Marcum.

Relievers: Frasor, Chulk, Spieir, Schoneweis, Downs, Lilly,League and Bush

Designated hitter: Ford- Griffin, Hillenbrand

Bench or reserve players: Choose from Koskie, Hinske, Johnson,
Catalanotto or a promising middle infield prospect from the farm system.

If any changes are required in position players or pitching staff the
Jays should look to their farm system

By selecting this lineup Ricciardi would be standing pat and not opening
himself up to making bad mistakes. Although this would very likely not
be a contending team the fans would be happy as the team would be young,
exciting and improving with experience. It would have speed and good
defensive potential. Older veterans like Greg Zaun, Miguel Batista, Ted
Lilly, Catalanotto, Koskie, Hillenbrand, Hinske, Pete Walker could be
traded for minor league prospects--if any other ML club wanted them.