TORONTO - The Toronto Blue Jays set the stage for manager Cito Gaston's departure Friday, saying he will fulfil the last year of his contract in 2010 and then serve as a consultant.

The 65-year-old Gaston was the source of controversy at the end of the season with players complaining about the way he treated them.

Players cited Gaston's "constant negativity," poor communication and old-school approach, saying the problems stretch back to last June when he replaced the fired John Gibbons. There were also complaints about Gaston's hands-off, in-game decision-making.

As of 2011, Gaston will begin a four-year deal as a consultant, advising in all areas of baseball operations, spring training, minor league operations and scouting, the club said.

"With the cards he was dealt and the people on the roster, Cito did the best job he could. The win total is a reflection of the talent level on the roster," said Blue Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos.

"No doubt in my mind that this is the right staff going forward."

The decision comes three days after Paul Beeston accepted a three-year term as president and CEO of the Blue Jays.

The Jays, who finished fourth in the AL East with a 75-87 record, also announced a revamping of the coaching roster.

Gene Tenace is retiring and Brad Arnsberg has accepted a job as pitching coach with the Houston Astros.

Gaston's staff in 2010 will consist of third base coach Brian Butterfield, bench coach Nick Leyva, hitting coach Dwayne Murphy, pitching coach Bruce Walton, bullpen coach Rick Langford and first base coach Omar Malave.

Butterfield and Leyva switch jobs, with Butterfield returning to third base after two seasons as bench coach, a move the Jays say will allow him "to increase his focus with the club's infielders." Leya moves to bench coach.

Murphy shifts from first base to become hitting coach.

Walton takes over as pitching coach after seven seasons working with the team's bullpen. Pitching coach Langford moves to the bullpen.

Malava is promoted to the majors after managing more than 2,000 minor league games.

Butterfield, Arnsberg and Walton were left over from the fired John Gibbons' staff. Gaston's crew included Tenace, Leyva and Murphy.

GM J.P Ricciardi was fired the final week of the season. Anthopoulos was named his replacement.