Blue Jays ownership would 'love to extend' Anthopoulos

TORONTO - The ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays says it would ''love'' to keep general manager Alex Anthopoulos and has been in discussions about extending his contract.

The news comes on the day Rogers Communications announced the hiring of Cleveland Indians President Mark Shapiro to become team president. He replaces Paul Beeston, who is retiring.

Rogers spokesperson Andrea Goldstein said Monday the team would ''love to extend Alex's contract'' and that he ''has done a terrific job.'' His contract expires in October.

Goldstein says the immediate focus, however, is a strong finish to the season. Toronto leads the AL East by 1 1/2 games.

Anthopoulos acquired MVP candidate Josh Donaldson in the offseason and traded for David Price and Troy Tulowitzki before the deadline to give Toronto a chance at its first playoff spot since 1993.