Jays in the Short-Term

There have been many articles written, and many questions asked about what the Jays should do in the short-term. Currently through 88 games this season the team has compiled a 42-46 record. This is not the record the team, media, and fans envisioned going into Spring Training. Many pundits had them competing for the division, but instead they are fighting to get out of the basement of the American League East.

Change seems to be on the horizon. 15 or so games ago Manager John Gibbions, Hitting Coach Gary Denbo, First-Base Coach Ernie Whitt and Third-Base Coach Marty Pevey were removed from their respected positions within the organization, and replaced by Blue Jays legend Cito Gaston along with, Gene Tenace, Dwayne Murphy, and Nick Leyva. Gaston of course took over as manager with Murphy as first base coach, Leyva coaching third and former Blue Jays hitting coach Tenace back in his old job.

There have been rumours that these moves were perpetrated by President Paul Godfrey, however General Manager J.P. Ricarrdi recently put those rumours to rest reiterating that he has complete authority over on-field operations.

So, what happens now?

The Jays have played mediocre ball since the overhaul of coaches, which clearly indicates a lack of on-field talent (offensively), and with Riccardi still at the helm one would think he will do everything in his power to create a winner in the short-term in order to protect his job. It is not in his best interest to start a re-build right now.

http://www.torontosun.com/Spor...078506-sun.html

The Jays finally promoted outfielder Adam Lind from AAA Syracuse and he has immediately began to produce, hitting a solid .314 in the 10 games he has played. However if this team is going to turn the corner many other offensive positions also need to be addressed.