It’s almost time for managers to select their 25-man rosters. We’re less than two weeks away from Opening Day, and still several teams have tough choices to make at various positions. The Toronto Blue Jays are no exception. In a season that many expect to be a write-off before the first pitch is thrown, the Jays have the opportunity to really test the depth of their organization. One such battle for playing time comes in the form of first baseman/designated hitter Randy Ruiz and third baseman/outfielder Jose Bautista.

The two share the same birthday – Oct. 19, but Ruiz, born in 1977, is three years Bautista’s elder. Despite this age difference, the Jays should be focusing on Ruiz’s development in the majors, not Bautista’s. The Jays discovered exactly what Bautista was last season; a competent utility man who can play unremarkably every day. Ruiz on the other hand replaced Alex Rios in August and was arguably Toronto’s best hitter in the final weeks when he was given playing time. Despite a shortened season in the Pacific Coast League, Ruiz was selected as league MVP.

Many people are putting Toronto in the 70-75 win category this season, which is by far not good enough to make the playoffs, especially in the East. If the Jays themselves are ready to concede defeat, they should focus on those whom they will have under control beyond this year and who are expected to be a part of the future. Bautista’s contract expires with the 2010 season. Ruiz is under control through 2015. However, the money that Ruiz will make over the next two years will be overshadowed by that of Bautista in the next three months; a saddening reason to give him more at-bats.

Manager Cito Gaston has a problem when it comes to his bench. He doesn’t know how and when to use it. Gaston is known for his loyalty to highly-paid veterans, and his toughness on the younger, cheaper class. Despite the benefits in having Ruiz get more playing time than Bautista, regardless of the positions they play, Gaston will likely do the opposite. Bautista will probably be looking for work outside of Toronto for next year, and Gaston will allow him the best chance to pad his resume. Ruiz in the meantime will continue to make the Pacific Coast League look like a walk in the park.