Long swing keeps Stairs struggling

Toronto (47-50) at Tampa Bay (57-39), Sunday, 1:40 p.m. ET ST. PETERSBURG -- In an effort to help turn around Toronto's offense, Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston continues to make his rounds, pulling hitters aside to discuss their approach or dissect their swings. On Friday, Gaston took some time to talk with veteran designated hitter Matt Stairs, who has been struggling lately. One of Toronto's biggest issues this season has been its lack of power, and Stairs -- despite leading the team with nine home runs -- hasn't been immune. "I just think his swing is a little long," Gaston said. "We talked about it yesterday a little bit. Just shorten it up a little bit and he should be OK." The 40-year-old Stairs has primarily been occupying the cleanup spot since center fielder Vernon Wells landed on the disabled list with a strained... [read full story]