TORONTO BLUE JAYS--Barry Swanton

G.M. Gord Ash engineered one of the big off season trades by sending ace David Wells to the White Sox for Mike Sirotka. History may prove this was an astute move. Wells' second half record failed to match his first half results and he is 37 years old. Sirotka is 8 years younger and went 15-12 with a 3.79 ERA in 32 starts. He did end the season with shoulder problems which the Jays hope won't return.

Buck Martinez comes out of the broadcasting booth to manage the Jays. Anyone who has heard him analyze a game realizes he has the knowledge to be successful.

The Jays live by the long ball and hit a league leading 244 home runs. Tony Batista and Carlos Delgado each had 41 to lead the power attack. Brad Fullmer contributed 32 and Jose Cruz Jr. had 31 home runs.

Pitching is another question. The youngsters Kelvin Escobar, Chris Carpenter and Roy Halliday didn't pitch up to expectations and contributed to a team 5.17 ERA.

The bullpen is in good shape with flame thrower Billy Koch (9-3, 2.63 ERA, 33 saves). If the Jays are to win, the young starters will have to improve and Sirotka will have to pitch to his potential.

The Jays are in a tough division and their best shot may be at a wild card spot. Pitching will determine their destiny.