Toronto Blue Jays spring training is underway in Dunedin Florida, and despite being projected as third place finishers by the so-called 'experts', management is confident this year's version of the Blue Birds will be right in the race for first.

"If we can stay healthy we're right there," said a confident Jays G.M. J.P. Ricciardi.   "It's a matter of us keeping our health and playing to our abilities.

"This is a good group of guys who work hard and they're committed to getting us to the next level."

John Gibbons was at his swaggering best as the sun beamed down through the palm trees surrounding the ballpark.

"We have a darned good team," he adds behind dark black shades.   "You know what, we're a team to be reckoned with.   We'll see what happens, but we're awful excited, no question."

Last year Toronto finished second and fans are hoping the big bat of newcomer Frank Thomas will help tilt things in their favour in '07.

The Jays will get a chance to show everybody how they stack up on Thursday when they open the Grapefruit league against Boston.