I also try to keep in mind that "average" doesn't mean "bad"
A team loaded with 2 WAR players who stay healthy and a couple of 4-5 WAR players is a playoff team with a good chance of doing well in the playoffs
A team loaded with 0 WAR replacement level players and a couple of 4-5 WAR players does not
Most think they planned to spend 160M
With Bautista re-signed, payroll currently sits just blow 151M
http://www.spotrac.com/mlb/toronto-blue-jays/payroll/
There's enough money for Carter and a backup catcher