Burnett clock ticking

A.J. Burnett chose to opt out of his contract with the Blue Jays Tuesday, but that doesn't mean he's out the door just yet.

"I don't think anyone is surprised (that Burnett opted out)," said Blue Jay general manager J.P. Ricciardi by phone from Dana Point, Calif., where baseball's 30 GMs are meeting this week.

"Now he can gauge what the interest is.

"We have not yet made a formal offer, as to financial terms or length of contract. He's played his bargaining chip and now he's going to see if it's worthwhile. When he finds out what's out there, we'll let that get under the bridge before we get specific (about an offer)."

That the Jays have not yet made an offer should not be seen as indifference. Just as Burnett must learn what the market will bear so, too, must the Jays before they make their move.

That market will be a lot more attractive to Burnett and his agent south of the border. If Burnett isn't a Yankee by Christmas, I'll be shocked.