A few interesting comments that I'd like to comment on.
Firstly the infield. I think it'd be a huge mistake to deal Tulo, despite his comments and reading in that he may not be happy. It may come down to money, but he's the best SS in the game. He was doing fine until he got hurt, and I have no doubt there was some lingering effect this playoffs. I'd keep him. Over to Goins though, great defensive 2B, and cheap, but his offence leaves a ton to be desired. If you can sell him for a really good RP and prospect, I think you do it. Travis can step in and will not be a hole in the lineup, but may be suspect defensively. It's a tradeoff, but I'd prefer not to have a near automatic out in the lineup (Goins).
Outfield is where it starts to get interesting. AA's tended to sell when a guys value is high, but I'm in no way convinced he'll deal Pillar. Pillar did everything well this year, from hitting, to running, to defence. I'd argue he's put himself in the top 7 or so CF in the league. Without looking at the stats I'd think he could be a leadoff candidate as well. Where trade bait could come into play is the two corner OFers. Rivere to me is as good as gone. His arm isn't there, and he's just not good enough to be on the Jays as an everyday fielder. But also not bad enough to be on the bench. What does that mean to me? Trade. His bat was relatively mediocre when you really needed it this playoffs. So I do think he'll be dealt for a good RP.
Now the blockbuster. I've thought for awhile, that one of JB or EE will be dealt, and when all is said and done, I think it'll be Edwin for an Ace. He's a tough SOB, and good player who produces, but they have enough HR's, and they really need that pitcher. If the Jays dealt JB, AA would become public enemy no1 if things didn't go well, and I think he's well aware of that. Edwin would bring an handsome return, and the Jays offence would still click. My only concern would be Jose's health, but if things didn't go to well in the first half of the season, with him being a FA at years end, I'd also look to deal him to get a nice return.
Pitching wise, I don't think the Jays will open the purse strings if Price demands over 5 years @ $27M+, and I can't blame them, but I do think you have to factor in game theory and keep him away from the Yanks. Whether he says he doesn't want to go there or not, money can change anyone's mind. The Yanks are desperate and you know they'll be making a push for someone. Back to pitching, I do think you keep Dickey and exercise that option and keep him as your 5th pitcher. Or you exercise and deal him. Estrada for three years @ $12M I would do as well. That leaves you with (Ace), Stroman, Estrada, 4th pitcher, Dickey. Ace you get from the EE deal, 4th from a signing. Still a lot of questions with that staff, but the shoring comes mostly in the RP category.
Anyway, there's a lot of interesting opportunities here. AA's a smart guy, I'm sure he'll do some good stuff.
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