Spring Training ...

.... started on Saturday with pitchers and catchers officially reporting in. But the most non-Dustin Gowan Blue Jay news of the day is that Shannon Stewart is back in the Jays' organization.

How exciting. You may remember him from the early 00s, where he was the staple leadoff hitter for the club. He would usually average around .300 and was called the Jays' best 'pure hitter'. Reed Johnson, you better watch out!

Sundin's Decision ...

... For what its worth, I really really respect Mats Sundin. I'm a big fan of him. He has always been a classy guy (except for that little stick throwing incident a few years ago).

Yesterday, Sundin declared that he will not waive his no-trade clause. Thus, sticking with the Maple Leafs. This guy truly bleeds blue-and-white. I like this decision. He says, that he doesn't believe in rental players. You know what, he is truly a guy who has seen it fail time and time again. Over the last few years, the Maple Leafs have been so desperate to win (or I guess more like make it to the playoffs) that they would deal away their young players for 'rentals.' Although, the Owen Nolan wasn't really a rental; however, he had a year left on his contract and then there was the lockout, so the Leafs only got like a year out of him, while trading away Brad Boyes and Alyn McCauley.

Here is hoping Sundin plays into his 40s, because the Leafs aren't going to get close to a cup for another 5 years. But I still respect him.