ST. LOUIS — Speaking before his All-Star Game start — which is scheduled to last two innings — Roy Halladay touched on the importance of being able to negotiate a new deal with any team that agrees to a deal involving the ace.

“I really haven’t got that point. I think I’ve been fortunate that early in my career I was able to take care of my family and get in the situation to start putting the emphasis on what I would like and I think at this point it’s trying to win,” Halladay said. “For me I don’t see it forsee it being hugely important, and if something is worked out afterward… I think you’re just looking for a chance to win.”

Halladay, whose contract is up after next season, said that he has had conversations with Toronto general manager J.P. Ricciardi regarding what is important to him when visiting any potential deal. The pitcher did say, however, that the subject of having the opportunity to negotiate a deal hasn’t been a major talking point.

“I think at this point, one, it’s so early, and two, he’s aware that what I’m looking for is a chance to play in the playoffs. Whether something changes in Toronto and they change their mind and they work things out, then that’s great,” Halladay said. “But I think he’s always been aware of that and always done his best to be accommodating.”