Jays Want More Matt Stairs

He may look like your high-school gym teacher, but journeyman Matt Stairs can still swing a freakin' bat. Since August 1, he's been on a 30-74 tear, the best of any American League player.

In fact, the Blue Jays have been so impressed with the 39 year old slugger's performance -- one of the few bright spots in their forgettable 2007 campaign -- they're trying to secure him for 2008.

"We want to get the ball rolling on talking about bringing him back," J.P. Ricciardi said. "Hopefully, we'll talk [again] later in the week. I think we've got the parameters to work within. Just like we did with Johnny Mac, I think there's a deal to be made there. Hopefully, we'll keep him here."

Although no offers have been made yet, there's always the chance that Stairs, a native of Canada, would take short money to stay in the Great White North. Unless, of course, the beer league comes calling.