Gibbons gets set for 2nd stint with Blue Jays

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Associated Press

TORONTO (AP) - A lot has changed about the Toronto Blue Jays since John Gibbons last managed them.

Seeking to end a playoff drought that dates to their second straight World Series crown in 1993, the Blue Jays remade their roster this winter. They pulled off two huge trades that landed, among others, reigning NL Cy Young Award winner R.A. Dickey and All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes.

Toronto also acquired pitchers Josh Johnson and Mark Buehrle in the deal for Reyes. The Blue Jays were active in free agency as well, signing outfielder Melky Cabrera and infielder Maicer Izturis.

Turns out a lot has changed for Gibbons, too. And before his second stint with the Blue Jays begins, he plans to talk to his players about handling the lofty expectations they now face.