The Blue Jays held their annual State of the Franchise event for season-ticket holders last night, and both Scott and I were able to attend thanks to a gracious invitation by the Blue Jays. We were able to meet many Blue Jays online writers, many of whom we have either linked here on the site or contacted in the past, so it made for an enjoyable night. It was also nice to meet, in person, many of the people that we’ve interacted with on Twitter.

Along with quotes from each member of the panel — Blue Jays president and CEO Paul Beeston, general manager Alex Anthopoulos and manager John Farrell — here are some thoughts from the event, specifically on the five-year contract maximum, roster turnover, the bullpen, and the audience’s portion of the Q&A session.

(more…)

His efforts at free agency were short lived, as he wound up re-signing with the Jays 24 years ago today on January 8th, 1987.

The Boston Red Sox selected Whitt in the 15th round of the 1972 draft, but his path to the Major Leagues was blocked by future Hall-of-Famer Carlton Fisk. He was left unprotected during the expansion draft after the 1976 season, where he was plucked by the Blue Jays.

(more…)