In light of reports that suggest Roy Halladay will NOT accept a trade after the beginning of Spring Training, the 2010 Winter Meetings just became the most likely spot for Halladay’s departure from the Toronto Blue Jays. With Halladay trade rumours swirling in recent weeks, it appears his suitors have been narrowed down to four possible teams; the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, LA Dodgers and LA Angels. Halladay, of course, wants to play for a sure contender, which significantly reduces the number of possible destinations for the superstar. While the Yankees and Red Sox have the most to offer in a trade scenario, Jays General Manager Alex Anthopolous may be hesitant to trade Halladay within the American League East. If the Jays are truly building for the future, trading him within the division should be less of a concern as long as they receive big name prospects in return.
The Winter Meetings kick of on Monday and Halladay is, without a doubt, the biggest name rumoured to be on the move. Other big names that will likely have new homes come the end of this week include; John Lackey, Matt Holliday and Canada’s own Jason Bay.
Anthopolous has stated that he doesn’t see a quick fix for the Blue Jays via free agency, so don’t expect the Jays to take a run at Jason Bay. However, understanding the impact that losing Halladay to free agency before the 2011 season would have, expect Anthopolous to be aggressive in trying to move the long time staff ace.
Has Halladay handcuffed the Blue Jays management team by setting a deadline for his potential trade?