The Ones The Got "Away"

Every year there is a lot of handwringing about the impact of losing certain players to free agency or trades. Here's a look at the fate of the Jays' Class of 2006:

• Scott Schoeneweis - This situational lefty was a mainstay in the Jays pen for two seasons carrying a heavy load in 2005. 2006 was not a good year for him but seemed to be a typical off year (he has one every second year). But one season has become two for Schoeneweis. This year with the Mets, the southpaw has "Tower-esque" numbers. In 21 games at Shea Stadium this season, the 33-year-old has allowed 21 hits and 18 earned runs in just 17 innings. If those numbers weren't bad enough, all five of the homers he has allowed also have come at home, as have 15 of the 20 walks he has issued. Good Riddance.



• Ted Lilly - Lilly started really strong this season (as he always does) but has tailed off as late with his ERA climbing to the 4.00 range. Would be an upgrade over Towers, but would not take him over Marcum or maybe even McGowan. Especially not at that price. Good Riddance.



• Justin Speier - Justin Speier was an extremely solid setup man for BJ Ryan last year and was rewarded with a fat contract from the LAAASCUSA (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the State of California of the United States of America). He started this season in grand fashion with a 1.68 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP for the month of April, but caught a nasty intestinal bug and has been out of commission since early May. It is unclear when he will return. For that along with the fact that Casey Janssen stepped up to be just as good as Speier was last year, Good Riddance.



• Bengie Molina - Like last year, the guy is solid at the plate in '07. Word is however that his foot speed has not increased significantly over last year. The size of his contract and his declining defence offset any positives that would have come from his decent offence. Good Riddance.


• Frank Catalanotto - We love you Frank but your .196 average this season makes us glad that you are gone. Good Riddance.