Jays Ready to Say Good-bye to Russ Adams

*Indications are that when the required waiver period expires for Russ Adams on Monday afternoon that the Jays' utility man will opt for free agency. The first ever June draft choice of GM J.P. Ricciardi in 2002, Adams was the shortstop of the future, finally earning a full shot at the position in 2005. That is the only season the 28-year-old lefthanded hitter has had more than 100 games played in the majors.

Adams was designated for assignment by the Jays on Friday to make room for lefthanded hitting outfielder Dave Dellucci. The choices available at that point were for another team to claim him on waivers, for the Jays to trade him, for him to accept assignment to the minor leagues or to ask for free agency. Adams hit .200 in eight games as a DH/OF .

Adams has evolved from a starting shortstop to a full-fledged utility man with the ability to play all four infield positions and the corner outfield spots. A similar type player was Chris Woodward who left the Jays under like circumstances and is still playing in the majors.

*Scott Downs claimed that everything was fine after his bullpen session on Friday. He will throw on the side again in New York, but will not be activated for the Tampa series. According to manager Cito Gaston there is still achance that he will return to action before the All-Star break, but more likely is that they will now wait until the homestand following the game in St. Louis.

R-Griff