The Prime Minister of Defence. (And Some Raptors & Leafs Shit.)

Welcome back, Johnny Mac.

At two-years and $3.5 million, the PMoD becomes baseball's most expensive pinch-runner, because Lord knows the Cito won't use him as he should: as a defensive substitution. (We need a Cito countdown.)

Now, I'm going to go on bit of a tangent here, but when I googled "John McDonald" yesterday, the first result returned was from Bleacher Report. What the fuck, Google? Is this the level you have stooped to? How much is Bleacher Report paying you? Bleacher Report? Bleacher fucking Report? Fuck Bleacher Report. Jesus.

(Full disclosure: I actually have a Bleacher Report account. It's the worst of my many humiliations. It was set up to feed all my blog posts to their site. Think TwitterFeed. Fuck off, don't ask me why I did it. I've asked, repeatedly, for the lovely guys who work there to delete my account, but they're being pricks. It might have something to do with the fact that whenever I write "Bleacher Report," it's preceded or followed by the words "fuck" or "fucking.")

Anyway, many Blue Jays supporters don't know what to make of the McDonald signing. Will Johnny Mac start at shortstop? Does Mac even matter, with Mike McCoy and his .405 Pacific Coast League OBP waiting in the wings?

Well, I'm here to tell you that Johnny Mac does matter, damn it, and that his signing is a bloody significant one. Because it might be the biggest one Alex Anthopoulos and the Blue Jays make this winter. And if that doesn't send a shiver down your spine, or have you reaching for the bottle of Redbreast, you're a more stronger-willed man than I.

Here's to building, folks. I mean: Building!!!1

Some Raptors and Leafs shit:

• I'm not even going to begin to wonder how the fuck it's possible for the Toronto Raptors to lose 116-81 to the Charlotte Bobcats. Back-to-back? Fuck a back-to-back. I don't care if a team has played 12 nights in a row, there is no excuse for losing 116-81 to the Goddamn Bobcats.

• On a happier note, does anyone yet own an Amir Johnson jersey? One of us really ought to. He's been an absolute fucking treat off the bench for Jay Triano.

• The Toronto Maple Leafs won last night. Seriously. Ron Wilson's boys are playing .750 hockey in their past four games. You know that that means: it's only a matter of time before that 11 point gap between the Northeast Division leading Boston Bruins is down to eight. (Another Leafs win, and another overtime loss.) Playoffs!!!1

UPDATE: I'm dealing with a severe migraine. It's been made even worse thanks to the news that the Blue Jays have signed Alex Gonzalez. I know, not that Alex Gonzalez, but old wounds, man. They still hurt.

So long, Marco Scutaro. I'll always remember the good times: 2009, when you hit .282 out of the lead-off spot; when you walked 90 times, posting a .379 OBP; when you stole second base after taking a free pass. All while playing sublime defence. You won't soon be forgotten. If you end up in Boston, I'll hate you. Especially if you're playing behind Roy Halladay. (Excuse me while I throw up in my fucking mouth.) But your memory, Marco, will live on. In the form of two draft picks. So, thank you. And Godspeed.

Anyway, my sports columnist man crush Jeff Blair breaks it down in a way that, if you weren't drinking last night, you certainly will be tonight:

"[The McDonald and Gonzalez signings] is about managing a 25-man roster; about ensuring, frankly, that 4-1 losses do not become 8-1 losses and drain a young starting rotation and bullpen."

Something to look forward to. Right?

Blair isn't the only writer at The Globe who was on fire today. From Michael Grange, about last night's Raptors debacle:

"In fact I’m thinking of introducing a new term to the local basketball lexicon: When an opposing player pulls a rebound off the defensive glass and dribbles the length of the floor for an uncontested fast-break layup; having to neither think of passing or even changing direction, it should be called A Raptor. As of now Gerald Wallace leads the NBA in Raptors though I think it’s a safe bet that Rajon Rondo will challenge for the lead by the time the Celtics are finished with Toronto on Friday. Embarrassing."

Toronto: where "Embarrassing" happens.

"Don't even look. It's Gone."

Win #66, in game #145, might have been the best one yet. Think about it. A Roy Halladay victory in New York. Five home runs, two by Travis Snider. Adam Lind officially joining the 30 HR/100 RsBI club. And, best of all: donneybrook!1

I could go on: Brett Cecil's body shot; Cito Gaston, ready to throw down; 5-10 John McDonald, all up in this bitch like he's 6-4; the priceless look on Ricky Romero's face.

For one night, the Toronto Blue Jays were again fun to watch. Ridiculous as it may sound, I love a good brawl on the diamond. I needed yesterday to happen. I'd been waiting for it.

By the time the dust settled in the 8th inning, I'd forgiven Jesse Carlson for his subpar 2009. For once, a Toronto Blue Jays pitcher stood up for his hitters. And it was beautiful. It's one thing for Randy Ruiz to get hit, in the face no less, by a Josh Towers whatever-he-throws. It's another for Edwin Encarnacion to get plunked. But no team, especially not our AL East rival, puts a ball to the back of Lighthouse Hill without retribution. For far too long had the Jays been pushed around without shoving back. And let no one tell you otherwise; it's always more fun to push back against the Yankees.

Somebody, please, a contract for Rod Barajas; .273 OBP and all.

In the end, yes, we're all glad no one was seriously hurt. More importantly, all of Toronto is hoping Jorge Posada's feelings aren't damaged beyond repair. A ball being thrown behind him; imagine! Poor baby. Rod Black's most epic call of the season - "Don't even look. It's gone." - rings true not only to the absolute bomb Snider hit to right field last night, but also to the respect I once had for Jorge.

And, yes, I will continue to believe that Johnny Mac's left to the side of Joe Girardi's head was no accident. It makes the tale that much better.

"It's a beautiful thing. Especially since Carlson didn't leave the dugout when he was ejected. Showing off the welt on his head in great pride, while Jorge was in the back crying and shaking uncontrollably. I would have liked to see Wells run up on A-riod [sic] with a bat and just crack him in the back of the knee. Two problems solved, no more A-roid, and no more Wells. There's always tomorrow...."

- AE, commenter at Drunk Jays Fans

UPDATE: The lovely and talented Joanna from Hum and Chuck has video up of the fight. Go and relive it. In all its glory.

See You In September

I'm off to see Lady Liberty. And definitely not the New York Yankees. I will take no part in adding to those coffers, thank you very much. If I want to go to an amusement park, I'll hit up the CNE.

Your parting gift: John McDonald's entrance tune ...

Gangsta Nation by Westside Connection - Ice Cube, Mack10, WC (with Nate Dogg on the chorus, of course) - is without a doubt the last song I'd ever imagine the Prime Minister of Defence would walk up to the plate to. Johnny Mac is clearly, as the kids say, "street."

Enjoy your weekend. Remember to support your local baseball team. (And its much-maligned centre fielder.) Winless, and hit hard, in three starts against the Boston Red Sox, I believe it's Ricky Romero's time to shine in his Fenway Park debut.

.500!!1

Free Lunch

Thanks for owning the Tampa Bay DEVIL Rays (again), and for the free pizza, David Purcey. You are a rudey.

That's eight victories in a row for our Blue Jays, my friends. We're in Chicago for four, beginning tonight. A.J. Burnett will be on the mound for the good guys.

Toronto is now 10 games over the .500 mark. Since the Gastonian one took over behind the wheel, the Jays are 41-27. That's .600 baseball, mes amis.

Speaking of Cito, he deserves some props for leaving Purcey in the game in yesterday's 8th inning. Purcey made his own mess, loading the bases up with two outs, and Gaston let him clean it up. Just another reason why Cito is the man. It's pitching in situations like that that will go a long way in Purcey becoming a full-time major leaguer.

Fun Facts:

During the Jays' super excellent 6-0 homestand last week, they hit 11 home runs. Eleven home runs. By the 2008 Toronto Blue Jays. In six games. Crazy.

When John McDonald, the Prime Minister of Defence, plays, the Blue Jays win. The Jays are 27-18 when Johnny Mac gets the start at shortstop.

You know that Jesse Carlson guy? He's good. In 60 appearances he's sporting a 6-1 record, 1.90 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and an opponents batting average of .197. He's struck out 51 batters in 52 innings, and he picked up his second save of the season yesterday. And he's a 27-year-old rookie. Another rudey on a roster full of 'em.

Tom Cheek:

Don't forget to vote for Tom Cheek. Daily.

Who Said Playing Spoiler Isn't Fun?

The Blue Jays are relishing the role of spoiler. They completed a sweep of the Minnesota Twins last night, giving the Twinkies' playoff aspirations a big "fuck you" in the process.

It was a most entertaining series. On Tuesday, the Jays rallied from behind, erased a 5-1 deficit and won the game 7-5. And you know how they did it? By hitting home runs. Three of them. In the same game. Back-to-back jacks from Alex Rios and Jose Bautista (his was a two-run shot), and a two-run bomb from Lyle Overbay. As the cherry on top of my home run sundae, B.J. Ryan pitched a 1-2-3 9th inning for the save. Unbelievable, I know. When I woke up on Wednesday, I kid you not, it felt like Christmas morning. It just felt great to be alive.

On Wednesday night, A.J. Burnett pitched well enough to win, but the bullpen couldn't hold the 3-0 lead. In a 3-3 game in the 9th inning, The Beej allowed the Twins to plate their fourth run. Once again, however, the Jays refused to go quietly into the night. And they were led by the young phenom - the savior, the franchise - Travis Snider. Snider tied up the game in the bottom of the 9th with a clutch base hit, his third of the game, off uber closer Joe Nathan, who entered the game with a nasty 1.11 ERA and 36 saves. It was an inspiring plate appearance from the 20-year-old, especially considering he fell behind in the count.

In the 11th inning, John McDonald provided the dramatics, walk-off style, and the Jays were once again victorious. The Tao of Stieb put it best: "Oh, and don't forget Johnny McDonald driving in the winning run. That's always good for the soul." You're damn right it is, Tao.

Last night, Jesse Litsch was unhittable, going the distance on a four-hitter. Whatever Litsch worked on when he was sent down to the 'Cuse, it's working. In 28 and 2/3 innings since his recall, he's allowed only 3 earned runs. That's pretty damn impressive. Hopefully my boy Shaun Marcum can parlay his demotion into similar results.

I mentioned Travis Snider's performance on Wednesday, but he was even better yesterday. He clocked his first career big league home run, to deep centre field no less, and finished 3-for-3 on the night with 2 RsBI and a walk. I know, it's only been four games, but the kid is batting .467. If he's not causing your cock to stir a little bit in your pants, you might need one of those blue pills.

Some housekeeping:

Vernon Wells hit home run number 16 last night, in game number 86. He hit 16 home runs in 149 games in 2007. I think it's safe to say that his shoulder really was fucked up last season, hence the dramatic drop in power. It's looking more and more likely that he will reach the 20 home run mark this season, and that's impressive because of all the time he's missed. It will also help me to sleep better at night, knowing that at least one Blue Jay finished with 20 or more jacks.

Over the long weekend, David Eckstein played his final game for the Toronto Blue Jays, as he was traded to the land of the rising sun. I never got to say goodbye, so I thought I'd take a moment. I don't think Eck got a fair shake in Toronto once The Gastonian one arrived. Not that I blame Cito, who is, like the rest of us, clearly a Johnny Mac fan. But Eckstein never complained about his diminished playing time or his role on the team. As Mike Wilner was kind enough to point out, Eck put up numbers almost idential to his career stats. He did exactly what he was supposed to do. So there's no hard feelings. He was a gamer and, by all accounts, one of the classier guys around. Cheers, Eck. Stay scrappy.

Marvelous Matinee

Wow. That was most enjoyable. Ain't nothing like beating the living shit out of the Boston Red Sox. To do it at Fenway Park, against their "ace," well, I can't ask for much more than that.

Sure, it was only a two game set thanks to Friday's game being rained out, but we won 'em both. And last I checked, that's still a sweep. The legendary Tao of Stieb put it best: "Yah chowdah heads! Why don't you take those 15 runs and shove them up Sweet Caroline's pooper?!"

The Jays looked like they were making up for a season's worth of terrible hitting, and overall execution, in yesterday's joyous matinee affair. It was fun to watch. Fifteen runs, 22 hits, and an astonishing 10 doubles. It was the type of offensive display I envisioned I'd be watching on a regular basis from these Blue Jays. Oh, how wrong I was.

Alex Rios was the main event in yesterday's doubles parade. Dude was simply on fire, finishing five-for-six with four two-baggers and a single, three runs scored, and two runs batted in.

Once again, I've got to show Johnny McDonald some love. In the first inning, with the Jays up four-nil and runners on second and third with two down, Mac, the ultra-light hitting PMoD (if you still don't know what PMoD stands for, shame on you), stroked a Josh Beckett offering off the Green Monstah for a double. Six-nothing Jays. It was a huge hit early from the number nine hitter, and it sent a message to the BoSox. The message? Something along the lines of "Today, we will not be fucked with. And Beckett sucks."

Hey, you know that Adam Lind guy? He's good.

Hey, you know that Brad Wilkerson guy? He's, uh, not very good. Yeah, he's made some circus catches the last couple of months in the field, but his .215 batting average and .624 OPS, in 74 games with Toronto, are downright awful.

Might there be a Richie Sexson sighting?

The Jays, fresh off their successful 5-1 road trip, head into their off day today with a 65-60 record, and seven games behind Boston in the wild card race (you're damned right it's a race). If the Red Sox look hard enough, they might just see Toronto in their rear view mirror, far off in the distance, but gaining some ground nonetheless. Remember what the always-wise Ace Ventura Pet Detective said: "Assholes in mirror are closer than they appear!" Yes, we are those assholes.

Seven games. Crazier shit has happened. And New York and Boston will be in town this week, beginning tomorrow night. This is what it's all about, folks.

Bring on the Yankees.

Not Waving The White Flag...Yet

I still don't have it in me to throw in the towel on the Jays' season. Perhaps that's because I'm a homer. Or simply an unrealistic idiot. Regardless, I just don't have it in me.

Before I go forward, I'd like to stricken the Cleveland series over the weekend from the record. Let's just, you know, toss it out the window, and fuhged about it. Cool? Cool.

The Jays have been playing decent baseball, and guess who got another win last night? That's right, A.J. Burnett. For those of you keeping track at home, that's 15. Fifteen fucking wins from A.J. Burnett. I must admit that after his first two injury-plagued seasons in a Toronto uniform, I didn't think I'd ever see this day.

I love Burnett. As I recently blathered, I hope he stays.

It was great to see the Jays' offence pick up their pitcher last night. Down 4-1 heading into the seventh, Toronto batted around, scored four, and made sure A.J. left the game in line to get the win.

Two at-bats in the bottom of the seventh stood out. With Adam Lind at first (three more hits last night, including another home run; how sick is this kid!?!?), Johnny McDonald battled Tigers pitcher Bobby Seay through a long, long at-bat, which must have been at least 10 or 11 pitches, before doubling down the left field line. Mac's taken a lot of heat for his toothpick-like hitting abilities, but he came up big last night, and his average is now at least over the Mendoza Line. Even with his minner stick at the plate, I'm glad Mac's seeing some more playing time. If only for the selfish reason to watch him play shortstop. The guy's a wizard.

After MVP (Most Versatile Player) Marco Scutaro brought Mac home, Vernon Wells' twig provided the other rather large, clutch hit. Welcome back, Vernon. His double scored Scutaro and Alex Rios, and put the Jays in the lead for good. Say what you want about Wells and how disappointing the first two years of his mammoth contract have been, you know how much his bat means to this offensively challenged lineup.

Scoot also deserves some props. I think the only position the guy hasn't played this year is catcher. And considering how low Gregg Zaun's stock has fallen in the eyes of the Gastonian one, I wouldn't be surprised to see Scutaro strapping on the pads.

Scoot's the everyday third baseman until further notice, now that Scott Rolen has hit the disabled list. Wells comes back, and Rolen takes his place on the DL. That's just how we roll here in Toronto.

There should be zero talk of Rolen coming back this season. His shoulder's fucked, and his health has got to be the number one priority. Two years and over $20 million remain on his contract - that's, umm, kind of a lot of dough - so Rolen and the Jays should be thinking about 2009. He's got to get healthy, because at the plate, he's a shell of his former self. If a fourth surgery isn't an option, I'm not sure what's next. Might retirement enter the equation? Seems kind of premature, but I don't know. All I know is Rolen is not the player he used to be. BUT I'm not going to shit on J.P. Ricciardi over the (Glaus/Rolen) trade. No way. I loved the trade when it was made, and still think it was one J.P. had to make at the time. Hindsight is easy, motha suckas.

The boys are back to two games over .500 - what do you know, a 1-2-3 inning from B.J. Ryan! - and have two more games in Detroit before heading over to Fenway Park for a date with the Massholes. Here comes the heat. Fifteen games in a row against the Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay DEVIL Rays, and New York Yankees.

The days of reckoning are upon us, my friends. These might very well be my 2008 Toronto Blue Jays playoffs. Regardless of what you think, and whether you believe the Jays are still in this or not, the season will be decided in the next two weeks.

Is it extremely likely that the Jays will continue to play .500 baseball over the next two weeks, or get spanked by their three divisional opponents in front of them in the standings? Yes. Absolutely.

Is it possible that they go on a 13-2 run and get themselves back in the race? Yes. Absolutely.

The odds are 50/50, my friends. I don’t know about you, but I’m setting myself up for some serious disappointment going with option number two.

Make me proud, Blue Jays...

What Happened To Mashing Lefties?

Mere hours after I sang the praises of our beloved Blue Jays, they delivered a serious stinker. I can't say I'm surprised. We were up against a southpaw after all.

I guess we were due for a loss. Hell, I probably jinxed the boys. Sometimes, actually more often than not, I need to just shut the fuck up and enjoy the good times.

Seattle's Jarrod Washburn turned the Jays hitters into his personal bitches. Again. It was his second win against Toronto in three starts this season. He's held the Jays to only four earned runs in 20 innings. That's, uh, pretty good.

Washburn was on point this afternoon. He went eight innings strong, and gave up only four hits. The only hit of significance the Jays could muster off of him was a solo shot by the home run hitting machine known as John McDonald. It was Mac's first home run of the season. Hey, he's only five behind Scott Rolen!

Rolen has six home runs. In 80 games. Oh my, that is depressing.

So, what happened to that lefty-mashing lineup the Jays were supposed to have? Their record dropped to 10-18 against left-handed starters and it's one of the main reasons they keep scuffling around the .500 mark. With a predominantly right-handed hitting lineup, the Jays were supposed to dominate lefties. I mean, baseball is all percentages, right? I shouldn't be surprised. Nothing ever goes the way it's supposed to. But still, I'm surprised.

In contrast, the Jays have a more than respectable 43-34 record against righties. If they were 18-10 against lefties, which they should be, the Jays would be right where we all think they should be: in the heat of the race. Tampa Bay, the Massholes down in Boston, and the douchebags in New York all own better than .500 records against lefties.

It's frustrating, and extremely disappointing.

Back to Scott Rolen, and some happy thoughts, for a second. Yeah, the guy has forgotten how to hit, but he's marvelous over at the hot corner, isn't he? Sportsnet's Jamie Campbell commented today that he can't recall Rolen making one bad throw over to first base this season. I would have to agree with him. I really can't recall one. What about you? If it has happened, I wasn't tuning in that night.

It's only a formality that Rolen will win another gold glove award come season's end. His fielding percentage and zone rating are both tops amongst third basemen in the American League.

It doesn't matter whether Rolen is bare-handing a slow ground ball or a bunt, making a sweet grab on a hard hit ground ball down the line, or ranging deep to his left or right, his throw is always right on the money. Lyle Overbay must love Scotty Rolen. In all my years of Blue Jays fandom, I don't recall ever seeing a more prolific fielding third baseman than Rolen. And he's only been here a few months. The guy is a machine, and a pure joy to watch. Now, about his hitting...

If the Jays really wanted to convince me and others that they were ready to make the leap to contender from pretender, they would have came out today and torched Washburn. I mean really torched him. Enough to make the Yankees think twice about acquiring him.

Here come the Rays for a huge three game set, beginning tomorrow night. I think I might have to make my way down to the SkyDome, sit in right field, and heckle the living shit out of Eric Hinske. A.J. Burnett will be on the mound tomorrow, and Doc takes the hill on Tuesday. Anything less than two out of three against Tampa might just have me reaching, officially, for the white flag.

I hope the Jays were pumping "It's Not My Time" in the clubhouse after the game because from here on out, the losses have to be few and far between.

Come on boys. Stay alive.

Worth The Price Of Admission

I had the sheer pleasure of being in the audience last night as Roy Halladay threw his seventh complete game of the season, absolutely dominated the New York Yankees, and led the Blue Jays to a 5-0 win.

Watching Doc do his thing on the mound is akin to watching a master at work; like watching an artist paint a masterpiece. It is simply beautiful. Like poetry, man. No one in baseball does it like Harry Leroy Halladay III.

For Doc, yesterday was simply another day at the office, despite facing one of baseball's most feared lineups. He struck out eight and walked only one. The only hit Halladay allowed before the 9th inning was a line drive to centre field by uber douchebag Alex Rodriguez, which Brad Wilkerson completely misplayed. If Vernon Wells or Alex Rios were playing centre field last night, Doc would have taken a no-hitter into the 9th inning.

Over his last 12 starts, Halladay is 8-1. He leads the American League in innings pitched and strikeouts. His seven complete games thrown are more than any other team - team! - in baseball. Cleveland's entire staff has thrown six complete games, good for second behind Halladay. Read that again. Let it sink in. The man is a machine.

Remember in Terminator 2, when Arnold knifes himself up and reveals his robotic arm? I think Halladay has that same arm. He is from the future. A pitching machine sent back in time to save the Toronto Blue Jays. He is truly a joy to watch, and an argument could be made that he is the greatest pitcher to ever take the mound in the history of the franchise. Enjoy him while he's here, Toronto. Appreciate him. Give him a hug. Tell him you love him. Because he won't be around forever.

While Halladay was at his filthy best last night, he did get some help from his defence. I was thinking about how best to describe the play Marco Scutaro and John McDonald made in the 8th inning, but some blessed soul has already uploaded it to YouTube. Check it out:



A thing of beauty, eh? Johnny Mac had to reach for the ball from Scutaro, spin around, and throw a bullet over to first in time to get the runner. No problem. He really is the Prime Minister of Defence. That might have been the best defensive play I've ever witnessed at a baseball game.

All of a sudden, after the sweep of the Baltimore Orioles, which included two - two!!! - come from behind, walk-off wins, the Jays are only a game under the .500 mark, with two more dates with the Yankees. And A.J. Burnett, on only three days rest, is getting the start on Sunday.

A sweep of the boys from the Bronx will send the Jays into the all-star break with a 48-47 record, and make manager Cito Gaston look like one incredibly smart man. I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to throw in the towel on this season just yet. Not when I see that type of effort from Roy Halladay and the boys against the New York Yankees.

Doc will of course be representing the Jays at next week's all-star festivities. Sure, Cleveland's Cliff Lee is having a great season and it looks like he'll get the nod to start the all-star game for the American League. That's great. I don't really care who starts, because we all know who the best pitcher in baseball is.

His name is Roy Halladay, and he's well worth the price of admission.

The Good Doctor

Roy Halladay is a fucking machine. When Doc's on his game there is no better pitcher in baseball, and he was on last night. Was he ever.

Halladay made sure the Toronto Blue Jays' six game road trip got off on the right foot by shutting out the Seattle Mariners 2-0. It was Doc's league-leading sixth complete game of the year, and he was downright rude to the Seattle hitters last night, holding them to only four singles over nine innings.

What I find amazing is Halladay's ability to go deep into games, strike out batters, but still keep his pitch count low. I guess it helps when you don't walk anybody, and Doc didn't allow a single free pass yesterday. He struck out six and threw only 115 pitches. He makes it look so god damn easy out there.

Doc's among the league leaders in almost every major American League pitching category. You name it: ERA, WHIP, strikeouts, wins. Most impressively, he leads the AL in innings pitched, and has only walked 19 batters in 130 innings. Unreal. He spoils us, he really does.

For those of you keeping score at home, that's back-to-back shutouts by the local nine.

As for Cito Gaston, he continues to impress after making a couple of key decisions late in yesterday's ball game.

Replacing David Eckstein with John McDonald, the Prime Minister of Defence, in the bottom half of the eighth inning was absolutely the right move. Eckstein had already made an error earlier in the game, and McDonald got involved right away, making two outs in the eighth. Johnny Mac might be the best fielding shortstop in the game and since we've got him, we might as well use him.

I've also got to give Cito some props for sending Halladay back to the mind to finish the Mariners off in the ninth. It was definitely a B.J. Ryan save situation, but Halladay's pitch count wasn't too high, and I thought he deserved to finish what he started.

I must say, I am rather enamored by Gaston's reluctance to obsess over the hallowed pitch count. He won't live and die by it, and that's how it should be. The pitch count is overrated.

And speaking of props, Marco Scutaro deserves to have some sent his way. He drove in the first, and winning, run of the game yesterday, and also made one hell of a play with his glove in the bottom of the eighth inning to keep that speedy mother fucker, Ichiro, off the bases.

Scutaro has been tremendous for the Jays all year, filling in at third base, shortstop and second base. The super-sub has played in 72 games because, well, he can play almost every position. Great acquisition by J.P. Ricciardi.

Don't look now, but the Jays are only two games below the elusive .500 mark, with 11 contests left before the All-Star break.

Johnny Mac's Coming Back

The Toronto Blue Jays just finished up a pathetic 2-5 road trip, and were bent over and spanked by the New York Yankees Tuesday night. The proverbial nail has been hammered into their coffin. There is, however, some good news. Johnny Mac's coming back.

The Blue Jays have been dealt some painful losses over the past few days. The playoff hopes, as minuscule as they were, have officially been dashed. It's all over.

It's been a tough few days. Closer Jeremy Accardo blew a 4-1 lead to those losers down in Tampa Bay known as the Devil Rays in the bottom of the 9th on Saturday, and Casey Janssen couldn't hold down the lead for Roy Halladay on Monday night as the Jays lost again in the bottom of the ninth, this time to the Detroit Tigers.

Those were two tough, tough losses. I've got to admit, watching Roy Halladay sit on the bench in utter disbelief after the Tigers scored the winning run was painful. I just wanted to give the guy a hug. He was just one out from his 15th win and his league leading eighth complete game. Alas, it wasn't to be. My heart goes out to Halladay, because he's really pitched his behind off for the team in the second half. He's been nothing short of sensational. It's been complete game after complete game for Doc. He's gone the distance seven times in his last 10 starts. Definitely feel for Harry.

I've also got to show some love to Accardo and Janssen. They didn't get the job done the last few nights, but I refuse to throw them under the bus. They have pitched their tails off and fatigue is clearly setting in. But those two can walk around with their heads high, and I hope they are.

It's been a difficult season. I've held on to the post-season dream for much longer than any normal, sane person has. I figured the Jays would just turn on that switch, win 10 games in a row, and somehow get that wild card playoff spot. You know, like the New York Yankees always do. They bomb the first couple of months, everyone calls for Joe Torre's head, but they always finish where it counts - on their way to the playoffs - when it's all said and done. But I guess that's why the Yankees are the damn Yankees.

However, in a season full of frustration, disappointment, and darkness for Toronto, John McDonald has been one of the few beacons of bright light. Word leaked today that the Blue Jays have re-signed the would-be free agent to a two-year contract at $3.8 million. Now we all know that Ted Rogers has given J.P. Ricciardi the go ahead to throw all his money around, but McDonald's signing is without a doubt $3.8 million dollars well spent.

Johnny Mac has been tremendous at shortstop for the Toronto Blue Jays. Sensational. Amazing. Fantastic. Outstanding. You pick the adjective, it really doesn't matter. He's a magician with the glove and is much deserving of the starting shortstop role. He leads all American League shortstops with a sparkling .985 fielding percentage

And since I don't know how to embed a video on my blog, for your viewing pleasure please visit this link for a glimpse of Johnny Mac's fine work. You won't regret it.

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9UNx7ei1xk]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9UNx7ei1xk

This is big, not only for the Jays, but for Johnny Mac. He's one of the few "good guys" in baseball. The last of a dying breed. An athlete that truly appreciates what he's being allowed to do, and that's play a game for a living. He runs out every ground ball, and dives for everything hit remotely close to him. He's a blue-collar guy, and he wears his heart on his sleeve. He's not a very good hitter, and he knows it, but his .250 batting average doesn't matter, because he saves the team so many runs with his D. The man can play some crazy defense, trust me. If you saw the above video, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

For the 32-year-old McDonald, it's the first multi-year contract he's received after six full-time seasons in the big leagues. It's a great achievement for someone who works so hard, and really prides himself on his defense and work ethic. Johnny Mac's become a mainstay on the highlight reels because of his exceptional glove work and this corner definitely thinks he should be the recipient of a 2007 Gold Glove award. He has truly perfected the dive-and-throw-from-your-knees-to-first-base play, and it's beautiful to watch.

For the first time in a long while, the Jays don't have to worry about who's going to be playing shortstop. John McDonald is their guy, and I can't be more happy about it. Now it's time for J.P. Ricciardi to address the other needs of the team - first on the list, kicking Josh Towers as far away as humanly possible from the organization - because it's all about 2008 now.

On that note, welcome back, and congratulations Johnny Mac. You are appreciated.

Return To Vinsanity

It's been a hell of a long time since I checked in. First of all, that picture right there is a beautiful one. It speaks for itself. Congratulations to the Toronto Raptors. These dinosaurs were on the brink of extinction, but a miracle took place this past season. The miracle known as Bryan Colangelo.

The party is just getting started, though. The man once known so fondly as "Air Canada" is set to touch down in Toronto Saturday afternoon at 12:30 pm.

Raptors and Nets. The past vs the future. Oh mommy, it's going to be a doozy!

I have to admit, I'm worried. All Vince Carter, the ungrateful whore, has ever needed to be one of the best players in the NBA is motivation. Twenty thousand fans booing his name, and calls for his head to be delivered on a stake to the Toronto fans, yeah, I'd definitely call that motivation. Carter has the talent to win a series by himself, and we all know there's nothing more he would love than to stick it to Toronto, yet again. He's a bastard, he gets off on pissing us off.

And the Raptors most experienced playoff player is Darrick Martin. Yeah, the dude who's half-coach, half-player. I love him, but the Nets have all the experience in the world.

I also stumbled upon a shocking statistic that blew me away. Vince Carter played every game for the Nets this season. All 82! He didn't miss a single game! It's the first time he's played a full season since the 1999-2000 season. In the past two years, Carter has only missed three games. It's been quite the turn around for the man, I mean whore, who went from being called "Half Man, Half Amazing" to "Half Man, Half Season."

I still think the Raptors are a better team and play a better game. But the prospect of Carter lighting it up and the Nets winning this series just scares me. But it's fitting. The Raps have to slay the demons that Carter left behind, and I believe this is a great team, one that could reach the NBA Finals. The East is wide open, and if the Raptors play the team game they have played so well this year, they should be able to beat the one man show known as VC.

I'm ready for playoff basketball. I don't even remember the last time the Raptors were in the playoffs. I think it was that time when Chris Childs thought the Raptors were down by 4 points, but were only down by three, and he jacked up a 2-pointer in the dying seconds. What a moron.

It's a good thing the Maple Leafs are already golfing. Had they been in the playoffs, the Raptors would have been overshadowed by lunatics like myself who inexplicably put a solid and exciting Raptors squad second fiddle to Maple Leafs hockey. It's all about the dinos in Toronto right now, and they deserve it.

Speaking of those beloved Maple Leafs, I have to admit that April, and the NHL playoffs, are just not the same with the Buds on the sidelines. I've watched a few games, but the excitement and passion levels just aren't the same, naturally. When the Leafs are in the playoffs the vibe in this city is just great. It's been a while since a playoff hockey game was played in the T Dot. I miss it, I really do.

On a side note, I've adopted the Vancouver Canucks as my defacto playoff team. I've always had a soft spot for that beautiful city on the west coast, and plus, they have Roberto Luongo. He's so dreamy. Sometimes, I just sit at my window, staring out at the city, daydreaming about him. What a magnificent goalie. Life just isn't fair...

Anyways, the Leafs' run to the post-season came down to the final day of the regular season, and it was fitting that they lost not only in the shootout, but on a poke check by that fellow known as Dubie.

It was a crazy run by the Leafs. Another mad dash at the end of the season to get a playoff spot, and it just fell short, like last season. The final game between Toronto and Montreal was one for the ages. The Leafs knew they had to win, and get help from New Jersey, in order to make it. They did their job, just barely. That was one of the craziest hockey games I have ever seen. It was brutally played, but boy was it entertaining. Leads were blown, saves weren't made, but at the end the Leafs were left standing. It was probably the biggest game between Montreal and Toronto in the last 50 years and the Leafs crushed the playoff dreams of the Montreal Canadiens.

The joy wouldn't last, as the Islanders crushed the Leafs' playoff dreams a day later. That was another ridiculous game. Brodeur got the day off for the Devils, which was no surprise, but the Devils still made a game of it, sending the match to overtime with only 0.9 seconds left. The Leafs needed the Isles to lose, any which way, but it wasn't to be. The Isles won their shootout, and capped a remarkable last week to their season, in which they won their final four games, including a decisive win over the Leafs.

The Maple Leafs had no one to blame but themselves. Had they beaten the Isles two days before the Habs game, they would have been in the playoffs. They just simply didn't get it done. It was telling that in the biggest game of the season, Raycroft got pulled for Aubin. This is the guy who is supposed to be our number one goalie! Pulled in the biggest game of his life. It was a pathetic display of goaltending, and pretty much was all year.

You suck, Andrew Raycroft.

What blew my mind even more was two days after finishing a point ouf of a playoff spot, and cleaning out his locker, Raycroft told the media he was really happy with his season, because he got to play a lot and won a lot of games.

It's good to know the players, especially guys like Raycroft, give a shit. Sure he won 37 games, but that doesn't make up for the fact that all his other stats were disgusting. Yet he was proud of himself for not making the playoffs. What does it matter to these guys? They get a longer vacation and more golfing time. There's a culture of losing that has surounded the Toronto Maple Leafs, and to see them smiling and happy after missing the playoffs was disgusting.

It was a good run. The last few weeks of the season, those were my playoffs. It was an interesting season, and guys like White, Colaiacovo, Pohl and Devereaux really stepped up. Sundin had a decent season, but really slumped goal scoring wise down the stretch. Antropov proved he can be a solid NHLer and Poni got 21 goals, much to the delight of me and my wallet.

Hands down, Kaberle was the Leafs' MVP this season. He's the man.

Raycroft blows. I know this bum will be back in goal for the Leafs next season, and it will just prove that nothing ever changes with the Maple Leafs. It's the same old bullshit, the same old lies that they are putting the best team together in order to win. It's all lies. If they were putting the best team together, they'd go and sign J.S. Giguere in the off season, who's a free agent.

For the first time in recent memory, the Leafs head into the off season without any questions on defense. The top six is set, and everyone is under contract. It's the offense that needs to be addressed. Guys like Devereaux and Battaglia and Antropov need to all be resigned.

See ya later, and thanks for nothing, Jeff O'Neill, Yanic Perreault, and J.S. Aubin. If the Leafs can get Peca's name on a contract for $1.5 million max, they should do it. Otherwise, say goodbye to him too.

As for Sundin, he needs to take a paycut. If he's serious about winning a cup in Toronto he needs to free up some cash so the Leafs can make a run at some serious free agents. I want to see one of Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, or Ryan Smyth in the blue and white next year. It simply has to be done. The Leafs need another legitimate goal scorer. I'd love to get Drury, but I know that's probably just a dream. Paul Kariya's also a free agent. In my wildest dreams, the Leafs would land Drury and Giggy, but I know that's not going to happen. We're stuck with that lame excuse of a goalie, and those free agents are going to get top dollar.

At the end of the day, Sundin isn't worth $6 million. He needs to be around the $4 million mark. Do it, Mats. You've made enough coin, lets try and win now.

As you can see, the Leafs have sucked forever, at least since I've been a fan, yet here I am, already making plans for next year. I have issues. Help me.

As for my Jays, the injury bug has already hit them, and hard. What the hell is going on in Toronto when it comes to injuries and our pro-sports teams? Throw me a freakin bone here! It's getting out of control.

Troy Glaus and Brandon League are on the DL. Reed Johnson's out for two months with back spasms and B.J. Ryan is out a minimum of six weeks with elbow issues. Unbelievable.

The Jays have a decent team, but I don't think they have what it takes to get to the playoffs, especially with all the injuries. Halladay's been awesome to start the year while Burnett has been his usual inconsistent self. It seems as though A.J. will just never be able to put it all together.

Tomo Ohka's been pretty bad, and I was counting on that Japanese cat. What a disappointment. Even Josh Towers has won a game, and he looked fantastic doing it, dominating the Detroit Tigers. Yes, freakin Josh Towers.

The bullpen, without B.J. Ryan, is looking really, really weak. I think the Blue Jays really made a huge mistake in underestimating the value of Justin Speier. He was the most underrated reliever in all of baseball last year. He was lights out in the 8th inning and was the perfect man to pass the ball to B.J. Ryan. I know that League pitched great last year, but having him on the DL is killing the Jays right now. Instead of Speier in the 8th, the Jays are handing the ball to Shawn Marcum or Casey Janssen. That's just not good enough.

I have confidence in Jason Frasor to close out ballgames while BJ is out, but at the end of the day, we need BJ. We love BJ. And Frasor's no BJ.

I'm just kind of down on the Jays right now. Things are looking bleak. Hopefully, the rest of the guys on this team can stay healthy and pick it up while guys are injured. Frank Thomas has looked pretty brutal 3 weeks into the season. That's bound to turn around.

On a positive note, I love John McDonald. What a serviceable guy. And boy does he play some awesome defense.

And how about Aaron Hill? You heard it here first. This kid's going to be an all-star. It could even happen this year if he keeps it up. He's a great hitter and he's showing some Orlanda Hudson-esque range at second base. This guy's a keeper.

Here's hoping the Jays can show the same resiliency the Maple Leafs and, more importantly, the Raptors, showed in their respective seasons.

As for me, it's off to Boston. Fenway Park, here I come. Sunday night at 8pm, Yankees vs Red Sox. It doesn't really get much better than that.

Go Raptors!!!!!!1

Goodnight, Toronto...