Though Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi did not rule out offering a five-year deal to free-agent right-hander A.J. Burnett, another source with knowledge of the team's thinking says he "can't imagine" the Jays making such a proposal.

As for trading right-hander Roy Halladay, forget it — at least for now.

Halladay, 31, possesses a full no-trade clause, and he is signed for$14.25 million next season and $15.75 million in 2010.

The Jays would not even entertain trading Halladay until after they made a full effort to sign him to an extension — something that would happen quickly if they kept Burnett.

Some viewed Pirates center fielder Nate McLouth as a dubious choice for a Gold Glove; McLouth's minus-40 rating according to the plus-minus ratings on Bill James Online was the worst of any player in baseball.

However, according to the final Gold Glove balloting, obtained by FOXSports.com, McLouth received 41 votes from the National League managers and coaches — more than any player in the league. The Angels' Torii Hunter led the AL with 66 votes.

The closest races were AL pitcher, in which Mike Mussina edged Kenny Rogers, 24-22; and AL shortstop, in which Michael Young edged Orlando Cabrera, 29-26.

So, how did McLouth fare so miserably in one of the most advanced defensive metrics, yet garner such respect from the managers and coaches who voted? More than likely, they were impressed by McLouth's aggressive style and knack for making spectacular catches.

John Dewan, the creator of the plus-minus system and author of "The Fielding Bible," wrote in a recent blog entry that McLouth is above-average in his ability to prevent base-runners from advancing on hits and his ability to make plays "above and beyond the ordinary." But in covering ground, Dewan said, McLouth struggles "big time."

Free-agent left-hander Mark Mulder, rehabilitating from a pair of shoulder operations, is making significant progress in his recovery, according to his agent, Gregg Clifton.