Argos fire GM Jim Barker

The Toronto Argonauts have fired Jim Barker after five seasons as general manager, the club announced Tuesday.

Barker had been with the Argos since 2010, but assumed GM duties in 2011. He was first hired as head coach, but surrendered that post to focus solely on his front-office duties. Barker was the architect of Toronto's 2012 Grey Cup team.

"On behalf of our entire organization, and our fans, I would like to thank Jim Barker for his many contributions over the past seven years," said team president and CEO Michael Copeland in a statement. "He helped deliver the 100th Grey Cup to Toronto in 2012, and that will forever define his legacy as an Argonaut."

Toronto has struggled over the past two years, failing to reach the playoffs in both seasons. Overall, the Argos posted a 44-46 record over Barker's five years as GM. They went 15-21 with Barker as head coach.

The Argos said head coach Scott Milanovich, who's been rumored to be on the hot seat, will be retained for now. However, a new general manager is expected to have the final call on his fate, according to Gary Lawless of TSN.