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It was the first day of spring training for pitchers and catchers here on Monday but the Toronto Blue Jays were also busy off the baseball field.

The Blue Jays were also involved in an important arbitration hearing involving Jose Bautista, their home run hitting hero from a year ago, that was to take place in Arizona.

The hearing to determine Bautista's 2011 salary is supposed to be confidential, but the outfielder confirmed late last week that it was taking place today and that he would be attending.

Bautista, who made $2.4-million (all currency U.S.) last season, is asking for $10.5-million while the club is offering $7.6.

Blue Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos did not attend the hearing.

A Blue Jays official said a decision on the outcome of the hearing is not expected until Tuesday.

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