So it was officially announced today that 'The Big Hurt' Frank Thomas signed with the Blue Jays. He signed a two-year contract worth $18 million, $10 million this season and $8 million the following year. There is also an option for a third year at $10 million. Yes, that's a lot of money for a 38-year old DH, with a history of injury problems, but don't good ball players make good money. He should rank in the top 5 in AL MVP voting, maybe even top three. $9 million average over 2 years for an MVP candidate is not bad. But J.P.'s signing of Thomas is getting riped in the Toronto media, and by some fans.

Here's a list of today's articles that are trashing this signing:
Why Is Thomas a Priority?
This Move By Jays Could Hurt
$18 Million at DH Makes No Sense

First off, every free agent will be overpaid this year, the talent is thin. Utility infielder Mark DeRosa signed for $4 million a season. Ted Lilly is maybe looking north of $40 million for 4 years, and he might even get it, same goes for Vincente Padilla who's looking for $10 million a year. Sure the Jays need pitching, but who would you rather have, Ted Lilly at $10 million a year for 4 years or Frank Thomas hitting behind Vernon Wells and ahead of Troy Glaus for $9 million a year for 2 years? Give me Frank Thomas over any one of Lilly, Padilla, Gil Meche or Randy Wolf. With such a weak pitching crop this year (after Zito and Schmidt), these guys will most likely get at least $8 million. Mark Mulder is another option but he was injured the majority of last season and struggled when he was on the mound. I like this guy, but he'll get a big contract.

Secondly, Toronto isn't the only team that valued him at around $9 million a season. Texas apparently had a 2 year, $18 million offer on the table. The cash conscious Oakland A's offered 2 years at $16 million.

Thirdly, who cares what the Jays are paying him, if good ole' Ted Rogers thinks it's a good investment, so be it.

Lastly, the free agent options for the positions the Jays need, starting pitching, middle infielder, and catcher is weak. The quality (and that might be a stretch of some of them) starting pitchers where mentioned above, they'll all get large, 4 or 5 year deals around a minimum of $8 million and up to $15. The majority of teams are interested in these guys and will drive up the price. Middle infielders are rare this year as well, the Jays have interest in Lugo (who'll get over $9 million from Boston, not worth it) Alex Gonzalez (looking for around $8 million, not worth) and possibly Adam Kennedy (not sure what he's after). The Jays can sign a defensive shortstop for a lot less, Thomas's bat makes up for the lack of offense, and their team defense will have improved. As for the catching position, Zaun is comparing himself to $6 million a year catchers, Molina will obviously think he's worth more. Barahas has been linked to the Jays, but I read this morning that he might be looking at $5 million a season. They should sign a defensive catcher, Molina and Zaun were terrible last year at throwing out runners. With the remaining money J.P., should easily be able to get a decent defensive catcher and middle infielder, and a starter.