Blue Jays' Gibbons noncommittal on naming closer

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons believes creating competition for roles this spring will breed the best results.

While most of the roster returns from last season's American League East division winning side, Gibbons is still left with many decisions when the team reports to Dunedin, Fla., later this month - primarily at the back end of the rotation and bullpen.

Despite a strong rookie season that saw him convert 20 saves while posting a 2.58 ERA and 0.92 WHIP across 68 appearances, incumbent Roberto Osuna will compete with recently acquired Drew Storen for the closer's role.

"We're going to let that play out in spring training," Gibbons told MLB Network Radio on Tuesday.

Storen, acquired from the Washington Nationals last month, is the Blue Jays' highest-paid reliever and is coming off a frustrating season in which he lost the closer's role once the Nationals acquired Jonathan Papelbon. The 28-year-old notched 29 saves and posted a 3.44 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 67 strikeouts over 58 appearances.

The addition of Storen also allows the Blue Jays to tinker with the idea of making right-hander Aaron Sanchez a starter - something the 23-year-old has expressed is a goal he wishes to accomplish.

"I think he could become a great starter," Gibbons said. "(There) are spots to battle for but it will come down to what makes the team better."

Sanchez opened last season in the rotation, going 5-4 with a 3.55 ERA over 11 starts before the Blue Jays moved him to the bullpen after returning from the disabled list.