FEATURE STORY
Jays Sign Shortstop Gonzalez
The Toronto Blue Jays have found their starting shortstop, signing Alex Gonzalez to a one-year deal for US$2.75-million plus a club option in 2011 on Thursday. The move comes a day after backup shortstop John McDonald agreed to a $3-million, two-year deal, and effectively marks the end of free agent Marco Scutaro's time with the club.
Gonzalez is not the same Alex Gonzalez who played for the Blue Jays from 1994-2001. That Gonzalez is retired.
This Gonzalez is 32 and split last season between Cincinnati and Boston, posting a .238 average with eight home runs and 41 RBIs.
An all-star in 1999, the native of Cagua, Venezuela is a career .247 hitter with 114 home runs and 521 RBIs over 1,229 games.
His option for 2011 is worth $2.5 million if exercised.
CANADIAN PRESS
