The Blockbuster's Over, So What's Next for the Jays?

Would Cruz be too expensive?

We all know what happened last night; the Blue Jays filled their starting pitching needs, added another utility player, backup catcher, and improved shortstop. But, they still have two main needs, second base and left field. Other needs include, a consistent power DH and possibly another starting pitcher (though these are not necessarily needed). This is all easier said than done, though.

My opinions of what should be done below (in order of importance):

Second Base - Jeff Keppinger
After coming off a solid year with the Rays, Keppinger has always had an on base percentage over .300 (expect for one year) and hit for a good average. Last year he had an OBP of .367 and an OPS% of .806. Jeff may not be the best hitter in the world, but he proved that he can hit American League East pitching last season with the Rays. Izturis is a similar player to Keppinger defensively, but Keppinger has more power. Izturis does get on better against Right handers, so could be used late in a game. Emilio Bonifacio is also an option at second, but is best suited for outfield. His fielding percentage is worse when he is in the infield. He is good to have on the bench though, it is nice to have speed late in a game, when a game is a close.
Status: Free Agent  |  What the Jays Should Offer: 3 Years at $10.5 Million

Left Field - Nelson Cruz
He is the solid bat out of the outfield the Jays need. He has hit at least 22 home runs over the last four seasons. And Davis still could come in in close games so he can steal those bases like he can. Cruz currently plays for The Rangers, and they are in need for a catcher. He has one more year worth 10.5 million left on his contract, so the Blue Jays would hopefully lock him up quick. Sure Justin Upton would be nice, but his contact is already exceeding $14 million per year.
Status: One Year Left With Texas  |  What the Jays Should Offer: D'Arnaud and Gose. Then offer Cruz a 5 year $56.5 million contract.

Starting Pitcher - Shaun Marcum
Shaun is a very good pitcher, but is injury prone. He did pitch 200 innings in 2011 and 195 in 2010, so he can pitch a whole season without getting injured. And, Marcum has good stats, including, a career WHIP of 1.224 and ERA of 3.76. So, he is still worth somewhere between 8-10 million a season.
Status: Free Agent  What the Jays Should Offer: 3 year $27 million contract.

DH - Adam Lind
Keep him for his last season in his contract, then if he is not up to par at the trade deadline, try to upgrade.

These transactions will add about 24 million a season, which could put the Jays payroll in the $135-140 million range. Would the Jays do this? Probably not, but this almost guarantees a playoff spot.

Possible 2013 Line-Up
Reyes SS
Lawrie 3B
Bautista RF
Encarnacion 1B/DH
Cruz LF
Lind DH/1B
Arenciba C
Rasmus CF
Keppinger 2B

Bench: Bonifacio/Izturis - Utility, Davis - OF, Buck - C

Possible 2013 Starting Rotation
Johnson RH
Bueherle LH
Morrow RH
Romero LH
Marcum RH