The Toronto Blue Jays have signed outfielder Shannon Stewart to a minor league contract.  If Stewart happens to make the big league roster, he would be paid $1.5 million from the Blue Jays.  Stewart will be battling for playing time in left field with Matt Stairs and Reed Johnson.

Blue Jays Blog

Alex Rios and the Toronto Blue Jays have agreed on a one year contract to avoid salary arbitration.  Rios will be paid $4.8 million for 2008, and $3.5 million of that will be paid via the signing bonus.  If Rios does make the All Star team, he will earn an extra $150,000.

Good deal for both parties.  If Rios has a big year in 2008, he is for sure going to get a huge pay raise in 2009.   I do see that happening, as I am big Rios fan.

Blue Jays Blog