Since the Season Ended . . .

Let’s take a look at what’s happened in the AL East since the Red Sox and Yankees were ousted in their respective first-round playoffs.

We all knew this would be the year for the Blue Jays to start throwing money at players. But, HOLY SHIT! Is B.J. Ryan worth $47 million over five years? That’s a steep price for any closer, much less a closer with a measly 47 career saves. “He stands among the few pitchers in baseball worthy of a five-year contract," Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. He then turned around and signed A.J. Burnett for $55 million over five years. Goodness, that’s pretty darn good money for a guy whose win-loss record is 49-50. But, let’s give Ricciardi the nod on this one, because Burnett’s career ERA is a fine 3.73. Rounding out their off-season acquisitions, the Blue Jays traded for first-baseman Lyle Overbay, expanding their payroll from $45 million to $75 million with just three major acquisitions.

In Boston this off-season, every move, every hint of a move, each and every inkling that a move may take place (GET IT?) is mentioned in the context that the Red Sox are still looking for someone to replace Theo Epstein as general manager. It was announced this week that the Red Sox have appointed co-GM’s for an indefinite period of time. The dynamic duo of New Hampshire natives Ben Cherington and Jed Hoyer will split the duties of general manager. Of course, this all happens with the possibility of Theo’s grand return looming. Anyhow, onto roster developments.

Taking advantage of the Florida Marlin’s housecleaning, the Red Sox traded highly touted prospect Hanley Ramirez and change for Josh Beckett, Mike Lowell, and Guillermo Mota. Previously, they had begun shoring up a questionable bullpen by signing Mike Timlin to a one-year contract extension. The Red Sox also traded Doug Mirabelli for second baseman Mark Loretta. (Sorry Timmy W., time to start breaking in a new catcher.) Most recently, rumors have been a dime-a-dozen about to whom they can trade Manny Ramirez and for what. Perhaps their best chance materialized when Miguel Tejada spoke up about his frustration that the Orioles have been quiet this off-season. Some heard him saying that he wanted a trade, but I think in the end, the Orioles convinced him to stay. (btw, this is all I’m going to say about the Orioles here.) So, let’s keep looking for someone who wants Manny . . .

The Johnny Damon lottery is about to heat up between the Red Sox and the Yankees. The Red Sox have an offer on the table of $40 million over four years and the Yankees have told Scott Boras they are willing to give Damon a “strong” four-year deal. The Yankees have also reportedly spoken to Nomar Garciaparra about playing first base. Three years ago, the three premier shortstops in baseball were Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Nomar Garciaparra. Now, these three may comprise 75% of the Yankees infield next year? Why stop there, Mr. Steinbrenner? I think Miguel Tejada would be a great fit at second! By all accounts, though, this has been a quiet off-season for the Yankees so far. They bolstered a strong bullpen anchored by Mariano Rivera by first signing Tanyon Sturtz to an extension, then signing free agent Kyle Farnsworth for three years and $17 million, and finally adding lefty Mike Myers.

The biggest news out of Tampa Bay this off-season is that Lou Pinella will not be back as manager in 2006. The Devil Rays new manager is Joe Maddon, signed for two years with club options for 2008 and 2009. Perhaps most striking is the lack of action in Tampa. It has been rumored that several teams may be interested in shortstop Julio Lugo and first baseman Aubrey Huff. I guess the Devil Rays are looking at what is taking place to their south in Miami and saying, “No thanks. We’ll keep our talent around and try to compete next year.”