Today in Bluebird Banter History: Alex Gonzalez

by Tom Dakers on Nov 26, 2011 12:56 PM EST in Toronto Blue Jays Analysis

Two years ago today we signed Alex Gonzalez to play shortstop for us, giving him a $2.75 one year deal, with a $2.5 million option. I wasn't exactly thrilled with the signing, but Alex somehow traded him (and a couple of minor leaguers) for Yunel Escobar (and Jo-Jo Reyes, but I'm trying to forget that part). If you would have told me we could have flipped Sea Bass for Escobar, at the time, I'd have never believed you. In fact I still have troubles believing it.

If you want to compare the two, in 2011 Yunel hit .290/.369/.413 while Alex hit .240/.270/.372. At the moment Alex is a free agent, Yunel we have signed for $5 million a year until 2015, the last couple of seasons are club options, but I have no doubt we'll be picking it up.

It was a great trade for us, thanks Alex.

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Meanwhile Atlanta really wants a SS who can hit with some pop and a good OBP

and can field decently.

I really can’t imagine who they could be talking about.

In honor of the Jays 2nd Baseman who played with fire in more ways than one.

by Damaso's Burnt Shirt on Nov 26, 2011 1:18 PM EST reply actions

Sea Bass as a stop-gap for second base?

by ABsteve on Nov 26, 2011 1:56 PM EST reply actions

maybe AA can trade him for Ackley this time around lol.

by ABsteve on Nov 26, 2011 1:59 PM EST up reply actions

lol..

I had the same thoughts..

by Alan F. on Nov 26, 2011 2:04 PM EST up reply actions

I’m good with gonzo being at second …worse case he’s the utility guy.

by ddbumpus on Nov 26, 2011 3:17 PM EST via mobile up reply actions

lol… 5M… I still can’t believe AA found a way for Yunel to accept that.

Alex Gonzalez: one of the best FA signings in Jays history!

by Sniderlover on Nov 26, 2011 2:14 PM EST reply actions

The new CBA puts a severe crimp in AA’s drafting philosophy. However, in all of this, I forgot that another of AA’s talents is to manufacture terrific trades. Gonzalez for Escobar is a fabulous example. (Picking up Morrow, Lawrie and Rasmus isn’t to be sneezed at either. :-)

by DavidLondon on Nov 26, 2011 2:31 PM EST reply actions