"The framework of a deal is five years," Braunecker told 1050 ESPN Radio in New York. "If a team can't do that, they will be behind the 8-ball a little bit."

The Jays, who wooed and signed Burnett three years ago with a five-year, $55 million offer, aren't scared off by having to pony up for another five-year pact.

That factor may aid them in their pursuit to re-sign Burnett after he opted out of the final two years of his contract.

Five years may not be the first preference of general manager J.P. Ricciardi either, but it's a concept he hasn't ruled out.

"They asked about the chances of a five-year deal, and that's one of the things they're looking for no matter where they go," Ricciardi said of his recent discussions with Braunecker. "But I don't know at this point. I think we'd be open to doing anything within the working framework that we think makes sense for us. We're open to doing some things that will enable us to keep him here."