Poll: Is Bautista greatest Jays slugger ever?
When Alex Anthopoulos signed slugger Jose Bautista to a five-year, $65-million US deal back in February, many skeptics wondered if the Blue Jays GM had backed himself into bad contract.
Bautista, who had never hit more than 16 home runs in a season at any other point in his career, surprised the baseball world by leading the majors with 54 home runs in 2010.
HRs since May 15, 2010
Jose Bautista — 63
Albert Pujols — 41
Miguel Cabrera — 37
Four tied — 36
However, the results thus far seem to suggest the Jays got a steal.
After swatting three home runs against the Twins on Sunday, Bautista has been the talk of baseball.
The right-fielder leads the major leagues with 16 home runs and 35 walks, and has hit safely in 31 of the 32 games he's played in. He also ranks first in slugging (.868) and on-base percentage (.520).
Oh, and did we mention he's missed eight games?
His insane pace has drawn comparisons to Barry Bonds' record-setting 2001 season, when he broke the major-league's all-time record with 73 home runs.
Several of those same skeptics have changed their tune regarding the 30-year-old.
We want to know where you stand, specifically, where Bautista ranks among the great Blue Jays power hitters ever.
Vote in our poll and post your comments below.