Quote:
Originally Posted by flames_1987
Keenan had two years with the Flames, JP had a lot longer time with the Jays.
Sure theres some pieces in place from his reign as Jays GM but theres a lot more moves he made that even after he's gone, are handicapping this team.
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Like what?
Bad contracts (Thomas/Ryan) that were UFAs and cost no assets and expiring this offsaeason? A Wells contract that he didn't want to sign?
And Thomas and Ryan specically, should be ashamed that they wouldn't accept platoon roles and continue to contribute - and I'm happy that the Jays played hardball with those two.
What else did he do?
Build an extremely competitive team in the toughest division in baseball with veteran free agents while developing prospects into stars at extremely reasonable contracts?
Consitently had the best bullpen and best starting staff in the league, and those young players are now the backbone of the current staff.
On top of that, Riccardi was on the radio every Wednesday taking unscreened phone calls from fans. Didn't always answer, but often got himself in trouble by being too honest. Hardly the trait of a villanous weasel.
Look at the Orioles who have been rebuilding for years with "young talented future stars" that fans would be patient with because they were rushed to the bigs, an organization with no depth or stability in the pitching rotation because they chase great measureables - that's bad GMing.