Nothing Beats a Good Rassing?

New Toronto Blue Jay Colby Rasmus - Photo by Keith Allison

I, like so many other Blue Jay fans, am anxiously awaiting the arrival/debut of Colby Rasmus to the organization. But was this trade what we really needed? It’s been given the term ‘blockbuster’, which I think is hardly accurate, but did certainly hinder our bullpen.

In order to acquire this young fielder, the Jays had to send Jason Frasor packing his bags. Frasor was a strong member of the bullpen, something which has/is slowly going by the wayside these days in Toronto. Instead we have a player that has hit a .259 career batting average, with 50 long balls and 158 RBI’s in three seasons….hardly an all-star calibre player – but the hope is there. Rasmus was a top draft pick, and has been having a hard time in St. Louis with the management of Tony La Russa; something that doesn’t sound too uncommon. Comparisons have been made to Yunel Escobar who has flourished in Toronto after having issues in Atlanta. Obviously we hope for a change in Rasmus’ performance, as there are many indications that this can be so, but again I question whether we gave up a touch too much?!

There were rumours suggesting that the Blue Jays would be attempting to sign a Closer, Heath Bell, from the San Deigo Padres, but after listening to Blue Jays General Manger, Alex Anthopoulos, discuss the previously mentioned ‘blockbuster’, he suggested this might be it for significant trades this year. This would be terribly unfortunate, as Toronto desperately needs some stability in this position that can actually closeout a game, something we haven’t seen since the likes of B.J Ryan.

With questions come answers; something I can’t wait to see – Okay Blue Jays….Let’s Play Ball….