The Blue Jays trade starting shortstop Alex Gonzalez along with minor leaguers Tim Collins and Tyler Pastornicky to the Braves in exchange for infielder Yunel Escobar and southpaw Jo-Jo Reyes. The Braves’ new infielder is probably best known for his role in Florida’s improbable World Series victory over New York, that includes a walk-off home run in the 12th inning of Game Four, giving the Marlins a 4-3 victory and a 2-2 tie in the Fall Classic.

The Padres also ink a star player eligible for salary arbitration, closer Heath Bell, who signs a one-year $4 million deal.

The Marlins sign a four-year deal worth $39 million with young pitching star Josh Johnson. He joins shortstop Hanley Ramirez, who signed a six-year deal with the Fish in 2008, as the future cornerstones of the franchise.

The Arizona Diamondbacks sign free agent 1B Andy LaRoche to a one-year contract. He split the 2009 season between the Pirates, Red Sox and Braves, but still managed to have one his most productive years, hitting 25 homers with 83 RBI.