Jays' Gaston doesn't think Barajas will return

Toronto Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston made an eyebrow-raising comment during his pre-game media session Thursday, saying that he doesn't think impending free agent Rod Barajas will be back with the club when the season ends.

"I don't think Barajas is coming back," he said.

When asked why, Gaston responded: "He's a free agent. Has he given me the impression he's not coming back? I don't think anyone has tried to sign him, so he's going to be out there."

Problem is, the catcher had no idea why his manager would make that comment.

"I don't know why someone would assume that,' a surprised Barajas said moments after Gaston made his comment. "`I don't think I've had any issues in the clubhouse, I've never said anything negative to pretty much anybody.

"I enjoy it here, I have fun here and I don't see any reason for someone to make that assumption about me coming back. … He's probably had some talks with some people and they've come to that conclusion. If it was up to me, I'd love to come back.

"Maybe they don't want me back."

Barajas is hitting .238 with 16 home runs and 61 runs batted in this season.

The Jays have decided to put off talks with their impending free agents until the season ends. Shortstop Marco Scutaro is the team's other notable free agent.