Jays Notes: Octavio Dotel, Chad Cordero, HOF, and the Draft Order

As we head towards spring training, with less than 8 weeks to go, here are a few Jays notes and news:

• I have to ask this of Jays fans, would you rather have Octavio Dotel (37) at a cost of $3.75 million over one year if bought out of his option – $6.5 million if over 2 years, or would you rather have Kevin Gregg (32) for 2 years at a cost of $10 million with a vesting option for a 3rd year that could bring the deal to $16-20 million? My answer would begin with the fact that relievers are a finicky bunch and that any time you can get one the quality of Dotel on a 1 year deal, you’re lowering your risk and exposure a ton. That and it also leaves the door open for a Jonathan Papelbon type addition in 2012. Finally, by letting Gregg walk, the Jays get yet another highly ranked draft pick, so Dotel is not only the cheaper option with more flexibility for 2012, but his acquisition also allows the Jays to continue the building process.
• The Chad Cordero deal is official and it is a minor league deal as expected.
• For those who may be unaware, there are 3 ex-Jays that are looking to get into Cooperstown tomorrow. Roberto Alomar should be an automatic entry, while Fred McGriff and Jack Morris may still be on the outside looking in. I have listed 6 players who I want to see make it into the Hall of Fame at some point, but I do believe that this year’s edition may only have 2, or 3 maximum. Roberto Alomar, Bert Blyleven, and the outside shot of Barry Larkin should be the head of this ballot. However, my heart is still with Tim Raines who I believe also deserves to make it in at some point, as well as Canadian Larry Walker, and  Lee Smith who is only hurt due to his being a reliever.
• And finally, we have updated the Draft Order for the 2011 draft post Dotel and Gregg signing, so take a peak to see all of those Jays picks!