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2015 MLB Spring Training: 5 Toronto Blue Jays Storylines to Watch

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2015 MLB Spring Training: 5 Toronto Blue Jays Storylines to Watch

John Gibbons
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The Toronto Blue Jays made major changes over the offseason, trying to put themselves into the conversation for American League contenders. They still have some serious question marks surrounding the team coming into the 2015 season. Here are five major ones.

5. Is Josh Donaldson As Good As His Stats Say?

Toronto Blue Jays
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5. Is Josh Donaldson As Good As His Stats Say?

Toronto Blue Jays
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According to advanced stats, Josh Donaldson was the third best player in baseball over the last two seasons, behind Andrew McCutchen and Mike Trout. While he was very good, was he really that good? There is a chance he is, but he will have to prove it this season. If he really is this good, wouldn't Oakland have asked for more than what they got for him?

4. Is John Gibbons On The Hot Seat?

Toronto Blue Jays
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4. Is John Gibbons On The Hot Seat?

Toronto Blue Jays
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John Gibbons has been the Blue Jays' manager since John Farrell left to coach the Boston Red Sox. The team has spent a ton of money to get them to the top of the division. It hasn't worked out, and the team has yet to make the playoffs. If they fall out of contention quickly, then it could mean Gibbons will lose his job.

3. Will Russell Martin Be Worth It?

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3. Will Russell Martin Be Worth It?

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Russell Martin was given a huge contract from the Blue Jays for his work with the Pirates' pitching staff. The Blue Jays hope that he can do the same for the staff in the Great White North.

2. Did Justin Smoak Need A Change Of Scenery?

Toronto Blue Jays
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2. Did Justin Smoak Need A Change Of Scenery?

Toronto Blue Jays
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Justin Smoak was the centerpiece of the deal that sent Cliff Lee to the Texas Rangers. He was supposed to be a sure thing prospect. Every year, people waited for him to break out, but he just couldn't get over the hump. The Jays were able to sign Smoak for just million. Will he be able to turn around his career?

1. Is The Rotation Going To Play Well Enough To Make The Postseason?

Toronto Blue Jays
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1. Is The Rotation Going To Play Well Enough To Make The Postseason?

Toronto Blue Jays
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The pitching staff is what has kept the Blue Jays out of the playoffs the last few years. They had Mark Buehrle, who pitched like an ace all season, and then not much else. They improved from 2013, but were still not good enough. Will it be good enough in 2015?

Nick Villano is the New Jersey Devils writer for Rant Sports. He also adds to the site’s NBA, MLB and NFL content. You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your Google circle.

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