J.P. finally settles on Cheer-Rios for breakfast

Thank goodness J.P. Ricciardi finally came to his senses, and finally settled with signing Alex Rios for a 1-year, $4.8 million contract yesterday. Rios was asking for $5.65 million, and the Jays were offering only $4.5 million. That just goes to show you how messed up the Jays math is; that’s not even close to meeting halfway - but I guess that’s why their lawyers and negotiators make the big bucks.

Ricciardi’s next goal is to sign Rios to a long term deal, which looks more and more difficult as Alex boosts his All-Star qualities. By only signing him to a one year deal, this opens the door for other teams in the near future to snag Rios for their outfield. And if the Jays are to sign Rios long-term, now it will cost them even more due to inflation.

It’s my belief that Alex Rios is a franchise player, along the lines of Carlos Delgado, Tony Fernandez and Roberto Alomar. He appears to have just as much talent as Vernon Wells, maybe even more. But without a long-term deal, there is the possibility he could fly to another team in just a few years. I’d hate to see that happen, because then how am I going to say “Alex RRRRRRRRRRRRRRios” at Jays games?