Will The Real Robbie Ray Please Stand Up

 Robbie Ray was the ace of the Toronto Blue Jays staff this year.

And arguably the ace of the entire American League as he is considered the odds on favourite to win the American League Cy Young award.

So will be great to see him in blue and white for many years to come.

But here's the rub - he will be a free agent in July.  And with a Cy Young award under his belt, he is sure to command top dollar.

But here's the other rub - which Robbie Ray will show up next year?

The one with a 2.84 Earned Run Average (ERA) this year - a career best 2.84 - or will be revert to form and log a more unforgettable 4.9 career ERA in 2022? And beyond.

Do the Blue Jays wat to give that long term, rich contract?  So the question you have to ask them is, Do you feel lucky?  Well do ya, punk?! 

Our second - and similar - exhibit is Jays second baseman Marcus Semien.  Seen here donning the Home Run Jacket.

Who also had a career year this year - and set a major league record for home runs by a second baseman - and also a free agent.

And here's the rub as well.  Which Marcus will show up after signing what surely will be a very lucrative and long term contract?

Because here is a chart of his career WAR - Wins Above Replacement.

Was the this year's 7.1 WAR an anomaly - although 2019 was pretty good - or will he revert to form after signing his likely mega deal and produce his career WAR of 2.7? 

Guys always seem to have career years just when they become free agents.

Go figure.....

Of course, they are certainly a safer bet than some players......

[Another Mr. Boffo rom Joe Martin]