(Sports Network) - The Toronto Blue Jays have fired general manager J.P. Ricciardi, who had been with the organization since 2001.

Ricciardi had one year left on his contract, but a disappointing 2009 season after three straight winning years likely sealed his fate. Toronto had won 87, 83 and 86 games the past three years, but entered Saturday's action with a record of just 75-85.

"This was a tough decision and a difficult one for me personally as I have enjoyed J.P.'s friendship and his perspective on the game," said Paul Beeston, acting President and CEO, in a release. "J.P. has put an incredible amount of effort into improving the team and he has brought along a number of great young players. However, I feel that it is time for a change and accordingly we have decided to move on."

Assistant GM Alexander Anthopoulos will take over for Ricciardi. Anthopoulos, a Montreal native, worked for the Expos from 2000 through 2003, then joined the Blue Jays organization. He was named the assistant GM in January of 2006.



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