Toronto Blue Jays

If it already hasn't been confirmed that Matt Bush was a bust, then it was confirmed today.

Bush was released today by the Toronto Blue Jays, for violating their "no tolerance policy."

Bush, who is now a pitcher after being converted from shortstop, was released by the San Diego Padres on Feb. 12, 2009.

He was released after he was charged with allegedly assaulting seven high school lacrosse players.

Toronto acquired him a few days later.

As the baseball season inches closer and closer to the opening pitch many questions are swirling around.

How will A-Rod do? How will the Yankees do? Manny in LA? San Fran looking to make their first real charge since the Bonds’ days.

Many questions, and we’ll have to wait along time for answers.

So let’s speculate!

When you think of the best teams in the Major Leagues, people automatically think about the Yankees and Red Sox...rightfully so.

Going into Spring Training, only three pitchers were guaranteed spots in the rotation: Roy Halladay, Jesse Litsch, and David Purcey.

Many candidates were brought into camp to complete for the last two spots, including Matt Clement, Mike Maroth, Casey Janssen, Brad Mills, Brett Cecil, Ricky Romero, and Canadian Scott Richmond.

Now with just a week left to go until the season begins, just three players remain in the battle for the last two spots.

Filed:March 23rd, 2009

Micah Hoffpauir (left), with Henry Blanco and Koyie Hill (Cubbie Nation/File)

No, I'm not going to pile on.

In Brief

• 2008 Record: 86 – 76

• Key Additions: Michael Barrett, Kevin Millar, Mike Maroth, Matt Clement

• Key Subtractions: A.J. Burnett, Gregg Zaun

A Look at the Lineup

On one hand, you have a 28-year-old right fielder from Puerto Rico. On the other hand, you have a 25-year-old, right fielder from America.

They are Alex Rios of the Toronto Blue Jays and Nick Markakis of the Baltimore Orioles.

As of now, Markakis has certainly had the better career, but certain players definitely develop faster then others.

Both players are five-tool talents, they both have rocket arms in the outfield, speed on the base paths, power in their swings, man their corner outfield spot well, and both know how to put the ball in play.

Vernon Wells tested his left hamstring on Wednesday and reported that he felt good.  I always tend to be a little suspicious of what the athletes tell the media. He’s trying to come back from his second hamstring injury in a year to this hamstring. I’m sure the Jays are going to be cautious at this stage of the season.