Almost all of the talk since yesterday afternoon, regarding the Toronto Blue Jays, has been about the increase in money that will be available to the Jays next season. It was good timing by Ted Rogers to bring back some hope for Blue Jay fans. This season is a write off, with another 3rd finish in the American League East on its way. There are questions surrounding Vernon Wells and whether he will be back next season, and if they can sign him to a long term deal. The mood in T.O. has been a bit sour lately, but with more money available for salaries, the positive talk about the team has increased.

In case you have missed some of the Blue Jays' articles, regarding Rogers infusion of cash, here are a few:
Ted Rogers agrees with J.P. that $70 million is not enough... - Toronto Sun
Ricciardi 'brilliant manager': Rogers - Toronto Sun
J.P. has cash to pay Wells - Toronto Star
Rogers willing to jack up payroll - The Globe and Mail

The amount of the budget increase given to the Blue Jays, was not released. The current Blue Jay payroll sits at around $70 million, and was scheduled to increase to $78 million next season. The 2007 season is the final season of Rogers original 3 year $210 million budget. I'm guessing next seasons salaries will be totalling around $90. Enough to be a legit contender in the AL? Maybe, maybe not. It will depend on if they'll be able to bring in a few free agents.

I have a feeling though that most of this extra money will be given to current Jays players who will become free agents (both restricted and unrestricted). Signing Vernon Wells appears to be a priority for management, but will he want to re-sign. Wells may want to test free agency after next season, maybe move closer home. If he does sign a new long term contract, it will be significantly more than the $5.6 million he is to receive next year, possibly in the $13 million range. Ted Lilly is a free agent after the season, and will be wanting to collect more than the $4 million he's currently receiving. Frank Catalanotto is also a free agent after the season, with J.P. already stating he'd like to bring him back. Greg Zaun is also a free agent, Benji Molina has a mutual option for $7.5 million with a $500,000 buyout, so one of their catchers (or another one brought in) will have to be included.

A.J. Burnett's deal increase about $10 million in 2007 from '06. B.J. Ryan's salary increases by $3 million, Troy Glaus by $1.5 million. Lyle Overbay is arbitration eligible, and will get more than the $2.525 million he's receiving this season. Alex Rios may be looking to get a longer term deal at more money.

The Blue Jays payroll will probably be around $80 for next season without bringing in any significant additions. It is apparent that the bullpen needs a quality vetern arm or two, as it is currently full of young guys. They need to add a middle infielder, at which ever position they decide not to play Aaron Hill at. Sorry John McDonald but I don't envision a championship team with you playing shortstop. Another starting pitcher or two will be needed, which may or may not depend on if they re-sign Lilly. Elbow troubles with both Burnett and Chacin may always be a concern.