Source: Blue Jays have not contacted Rizzo about president/CEO job

Nothing like a hot rumor to spice up NatsFest, though this one had nothing to do with a big trade or free agent signing. ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick reported Saturday afternoon that the Toronto Blue Jays are interested in Nationals president of baseball operations and general manager Mike Rizzo, who they'd like to hire as their new president/CEO when Paul Beeston relinquishes those roles after the 2015 season. Rizzo, who has already met with the media during a scheduled session at NatsFest, was not made available for comment. But a source with knowledge of the situation said that the Blue Jays have not contacted either Rizzo or the Nationals to ask permission to talk to him about the position. Traditionally, major league teams must request official permission to speak to someone currently employed by another team, even if the potential position would be considered a promotion. Apparently, that hasn't happened in Rizzo's case yet. Rizzo would be the third current executive linked to the possible job opening north of the border. On Sunday, the names of Orioles executive vice president Dan Duquette and White Sox executive vice president Kenny Williams were floated as possible replacements for Beeston. However, Duquette maintained that he would honor the contract he signed through 2018 and Orioles managing partner Peter G. Angelos said he expected Duquette to fulfill the deal he signed. Williams' name was taken out of the running when the White Sox declined to give Toronto permission to speak with him. Later in the week, Twins general manager Terry Ryan surfaced as another candidate, but said he wasn't interested in leaving Minnesota.