This winter, the Jays will likely sift through the market for veteran options in the outfield. Toronto doesn't want to become a perpetual way station for players who learn on the job, and this offseason may bring a line of demarcation. Guys like Gross or Griffin may have to wait for an injury or a trade to another organization to get their big league break. Vernon Wells is set in center, of course, which means the Blue Jays only have two spots to worry about. Reed Johnson and Frank Catalanotto have handled left field for the last two seasons, but Toronto may try to upgrade on that platoon. Johnson could still serve as a defensive backup and occasional starter, even if the Jays added a regular left fielder. Rios is the true X-Factor here. Nobody's sure when he'll pull it all together, despite growing signs of physical maturity. Rios popped 10 home runs last year, but he also took corresponding dips in batting average and patience at the plate. The youngster didn't pull the ball the way Toronto wanted and wasn't able to go with the pitch the way he's done in the past. It wouldn't be much of a surprise to see Rios traded or have his role reduced. But then again, it wouldn't be a shock to see his skills kick in next season or the one after that. These are the difficulties of acting as a general manager -- even in jest.