--LHP Mike Maroth, one of the longshot candidates to make the starting rotation, is having problems with his left knee but wants to try to pitch through the discomfort. "He might have some damage in there (a torn meniscus) but he thinks he can fight through it," general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. Maroth, who is in camp on a minor league contract, has not pitched in the big leagues in the past two seasons because of problems with his left shoulder. His knee problem could put an end to his comeback hopes.
--In something of a surprise move, LHP Brian Burres, who was 7-10 with a 6.04 ERA last season with the Orioles, was sent outright to Class AAA Las Vegas. Burres came into camp as a candidate for one of the open spots in the rotation. --RHP Matt Clement, another of the Blue Jays' pitching reclamation projects, has an out clause with the organization if he passes the health hurdle. He has the right to leave the organization on May 31 if he is pitching in the minor leagues and has the opportunity for another major league job. "We never want to stop anyone from having a big league job," general manager J.P. Ricciardi said.
--CF Vernon Wells announced he will not be playing for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Wells said there are issues with his contract and related insurance clauses that prevent him from playing in the tournament for a second time. "Some insurance issues have come up, it has to do with the amount of time I spent on the disabled list the prior season (2008)," Wells said.
--LHP Scott Downs felt a twinge in his left elbow and, after an MRI exam showed there was no damage, he will be shut down for several days. Downs told the club prior to spring training that he did not want to be stretched out and be a possible candidate for one of the open spots in the rotation. The club respected his wishes.
BY THE NUMBERS: 30-30 -- A realistic goal as to the number of home runs and stolen bases RF Alex Rios should be able to achieve in 2009, as set by his manager Cito Gaston. "Absolutely, because it's reachable," Gaston said. "Some guys don't like to make goals, but I think he can. This kid is as good an athlete as we have. I believe this year he's really going to learn how to hit. A lot of things he did in the past were just all on natural ability. He's still learning."
QUOTE TO NOTE: "Putting our (pitching) staff together is going to be the biggest challenge we have." -- General manager J.P. Ricciardi on the main task of the Blue Jays this spring.
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