Live: Mets Press Conf. from Los Angeles

June 17, 2008 at 17:02 pm · 347 comments

by Matthew Cerrone

Omar Minaya just stepped to the podium.

which looks weird, because he is surrounded by logos for the Anaheim Angels of Los Angeles, or whatever they’re called

Update5:01 pm

According to Minaya, it was his decision, and the minute he made the decision he made the call to Randolph.

Minaya believes this team needed a new leader, and this is why he ‘went with’ Jerry Manuel, who was the team’s bench coach.

Update5:06 pm

“This was a tough decision,” Minaya said, because it was my decision, which he repeated five times, adding, “This was tough because it was my hire,” noting that Randolph and he had a bond that was very hard to break.

“It wasn’t easy,” Minaya said, “It had to be done.”

Update5:08 pm

Minaya believes this team is under-performing, not only because of Willie Randolph, “I’m responsible too,” he said.

“That being said,” he added, “It’s about how this team has played since last year.”

Update5:09 pm

“I could not do this on Sunday, because the reality is that I made the decision on Monday,” he explained.

He and Randolph have been in contact about this last week, Minaya said, and he told Randolph that there is pressure and, “he needed to find a way to get it done.”

Update5:11 pm

“We could not go on as a team the way it was this weekend,” Minaya said, with regards to the level of anxiety surrounding the team, “It would not have been fair to his players.”

Update5:13 pm

He said, most managers get fired at lunch, in the morning or after the game, but because he works in a market with so much media and sources, he felt he needed to tell him the minute he made the decision, “And that’s why it was done last night,” because he didn’t want a third party to tell Randolph first.

Update5:14 pm

i need to listen to this again, but it sounds like he is blaming the media a bit for helping him make this decision by creating an environment, through leaks and rumors, etc, that was unfair to his players

“You guys do your job very well,” he said, with a bit of sarcasm.

Update5:15 pm

“Jerry Manuel will be the manager of this team for the rest of the year,” Minaya said.

“I love Willie Randolph, he’s my friend I hope he finds another job as a manager,” Minaya said, “But this ain’t about love…The reality is, we’re not playing to the level of the talent that we have.”

Update5:18 pm

“Jerry Manuel was the best manager for this job, at this time,” Minaya said.

Update5:20 pm

“We are where we are today, not just for the decisions on the field, but because of the decisions I made,” Minaya said.

Update5:24 pm

“Randolph got back to the hotel, we talked about the game, I looked at him straight in the eye,” Minaya explained, “I told him I made a decision, and you’re not the manager, that’s my decision.”

I was not going to fire Willie Randolph on the field in uniform, it was going to be done in private, in confidence,” Minaya said.  “Let me tell you something, the worst feeling is that when a guy is in uniform and some else reports to him that he’s been fired…I could have told him this morning, but in this market, to hold something like that a secret for 48 hours, ha, it just doesn’t happen.”

Update5:28 pm

Minaya said, “Guys, let me tell you something, at the end of last year, ownership said it was your decision and I could have made the decision to let him go and I didn’t…Ownership supported me either way…When I came on board here, that was the agreement…In 2004 I came here with the authority to make baseball decisions.”

Update5:38 pm

“Those remarks (from Bergen Record), created more mention in the situation, that’s a fact,” Minaya said, “i don’t want to get in to it, but it did.”

Update5:41 pm

Minaya continues to say that, the reason he told Randolph at 11 pm PDT, was because, he knew, the minute he made this decision it would not take much for a third-party source to leak the information.

which makes no sense…unless that third-party source as a mind reader…

Update5:45 pm

Jerry Manuel is now at the podium, and looks very, very serious.

“There will be differences,” Manuel said.

Update5:50 pm

“I think I would have reminded the team of the collapse, instead of putting it behind us, using it as a way to motivate us to get to a different level,” Manuel said.

…he is a very soft-spoken, smooth talking guy…it sounds like he should be on radio…this is news to me, because i had never heard him speak before

Update5:52 pm

Ken Oberkfell will be the team’s first base coach, Dan Warthen will be the pitching coach, Sandy Alomar will be the bench coach, and Luis Aguyo will be the team’s third base coach.

Manuel says he has been friends with Alomar for a long time.

“Oberkfell is a tremendous talent, from his days with the Cardinals,” Manuel said, “I’m looking forward to learning and growing with him.”

Update5:55 pm

“I think we have a foundation here to really grow and get us back on track,” Manuel said.

Update5:57 pm

He says he’s not one to just steal bases or hit and run for statistical purposes, though he knows that is important, but, instead, it’s more important for him to teach and work with his players on when is the right time – when is the right context – to hit and run and steal, etc.

…i have no idea what that means…oh well

Update5:59 pm

“At the end of the year, if this doesn’t work out, and Omar comes looking for me, you know, he said he would never fire a man in uniform so I’m keeping mine on – I’ll take it right home with me,” he said, with laughter.

Update6:02 pm

“Being Interim Manager is not a problem to me,” he said, “It’s an opportunity.”

Update6:03 pm

He says he needs to identity roles in the bullpen, “and lock them down,” and get them throwing first-pitch strikes.

He says he thinks starting pitchers should throw seven, eight innings, and 120 pitches, but he needs to work with his pitchers on that first.

Update6:06 pm

Manuel explained, noting that David Wright will be the DH tonight, “I do plan to make some changes to the lineup, though that depends on how the guys are swinging.  Any day, your fourth hitter may not be your fourth hitter that day…I like to use the second spot in the lineup to get a guy going.  There may be some things, but if we continue to win then I’m gonna stay out the way.”

Update6:07 pm

“Gangstas get on the field, ladies get on the bus,” he said, which is an expression he and David Wright often say to one another.

“We need to do it right for the fans in New York,” he said, “It’s a tremendous responsibility.”

Update6:08 pm

“I’m going to let them know that I have transitioned to a new position of authority,” he said, “And they don’t have to like me, but they must respect the office that I hold.”

The press conference is over.

{ 347 comments }

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 5:06 pm

looks like omar is going to cry

a387b June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

In regards to the termination of NY Mets Manager Mr. Willie Randolph, Pitching Coach Mr. Rick Peterson, and First Base Coach Mr. Tom Nieto, first I am deeply sadden to hear of these losses. It is startling to even having to hear all the speculation of “who’s being let go” over the last 10 months or more, only to have arrived at this prematurely-made decision.

I certainly know as human being that we are chosen to live because of grace – second chances and even more chances.

The decision to terminate all three wonderful, well-trained veterans of American baseball is very immature.

I’m not in disagreement of when the call to terminate is executed, but to the stupidity of reasoning that these men are not managing well!

In the last three years since I have regained knowledge of the New York Mets, I have written on the back of my hand and head the names of New York Mets players who plays very well and/or even stunk up a game! Before then, I knew no one!

Is it me or my mind caught up on reading into life’s spiraling downfall into the Roman and Greek era where the most noblest and strongest were known and second to last were thrown into the realms of fire?

What is wrong with second place, third place, forth place, etc.? What is wrong with becoming a public entity on a level other than first place?

I was ticked off when the New York Yankees’ Steinbrenner terminated Mr. Joe Torre last season. And, pretty much, Mr. Steinbrenner terminated Mr. Torre because Mr. Torre could not account for leading the New York Yankees into winning first place.

Give me a break! Oh, my goodness! I feel the heat of Rome right here in New York City. And it is a big disgrace! It fouls the air with darkness.

I don’t know how the young men in the New York Mets’ clubhouse will ever (and if ever) perform at their best without the three most valuable men aiding them. It will now be a miracle for the New York Mets to ever (ever) see a championship like the one they saw twenty-two years ago. And, I doubt that they will see that day. Mr. Randolph and the clubhouse came awfully close to gaining it in the last two years. Prior to that, the New York Mets had no close proximity to seeing a third place position!

Mr. Randolph and the coaches did not have enough time to sort out their strategies. Two years is definitely too short to have come up with a game plan for first place!

Áy vé! We’re doomed!

One last note, I thank Mr. Donald Trump for his “Apprentice” show, along with his worldwide famous quote: “You’re Fired!” It is this spirit that many will be trumped out of jobs because “lack of performance.”

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:17 pm

Please try to remember to take every dose.

Thanks.

koosman June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

hahah

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

and a little extra for good measure…

a387b June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

LOL…Heavy doses will be needed … no doubt… enough for everyone, everywhere…

sherlockcollector June 17, 2008 at 5:35 pm

Isn’t the first guy the same one who wrote Omar’s press conference speech? Can this get any worse? The only guy that makes less sense than Omar is George Bush.
What an absolute joke!! You don’t have to be articulate [although it would help] but for God’s sake make some sense. Have a rationale thought process.

ReturnOfTheStache June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

lmao that’s the first thing i noticed, Minaya looks like he’s about to breakdown and cry.

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Probably because he should have at least double the pressure I’d think; he’ll more than likely look good if the Mets make a run, however, if the team eventually sinks and possibly looks even worse than before; well, oh my, Minaya may think about witness protection.

pkpiazza June 17, 2008 at 5:06 pm

at least omar is being honest, he also is giving good reason for the timing

ravin108 June 17, 2008 at 5:16 pm

Completely.. its not fair for Omar to have people leaking his plans.. Your best friends don’t tell your girlfriend you are going to break up with her before you tell her.

gameball June 17, 2008 at 5:27 pm

Omar is making a good case for the way he handled the actual firing.

As for it’s being his call only, I’m not so convinced.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:07 pm

wow wtf.. omar is like.. repeating himself a lot and not really making a lot of sense..what does african american and hispanic have to do with anything.. he is having trouble…speaking…

Slappy McDoubleton June 17, 2008 at 5:08 pm

That means he’s not tell the full truth.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:08 pm

It has nothing to do with anything, and it shouldn’t even be brought up. These jobs should go to the best people available to take them.

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:11 pm

In think he is doing well.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:13 pm

He is doing well and he’s saying what needs to be said. He’s being direct, and he didn’t take the bait when he was asked what Willie’s shortcomings were as a manager. I just don’t like the racial stuff being brought into it. The jobs these guys have should be just that, their jobs.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:08 pm

“I had two choices. He was going to be our manager for the entire year. Or he was not going to be our manager. I came to the decision that he is not going to be our manager.”

I’ll give Omar some credit. That’s a lot more direct than I expected him to be.

raylyman78 June 17, 2008 at 5:08 pm

Is it me or did Omar go to the George W. Bush school of public speaking with the ums and ahs and the repeats?

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 5:10 pm

and using “ok” every other word

rM teM June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

OK? OK? OK? Omars an a$$hole, OK???

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

You are dead on. Beat me to it, dude. See my post further down.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:08 pm

INTERIM. Say INTERIM.

johnnyvegas77 June 17, 2008 at 5:09 pm

Did Omar just jump off a treadmill and onto the podium? Or did he take all the greenies his team’s not allowed to take anymore?

GregB June 17, 2008 at 5:10 pm

“It had to be done.”

Yeah, it had to be done before Willie won any more games!

Next up…the Omar Watch. I’m guessing he’ll get the axe during business hours.

tengobotas June 17, 2008 at 5:10 pm

Hes nervous because he knows that if things dont turn around, hes next.

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:10 pm

Willie… I said Willie… I talked to him on the bus, OK…. Willie… I said Willie… I’m gonna have to make a decision… OK… I decided, OK…. in the meeting… OK… Willie…. I said Willie…

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:11 pm

omars actually doing well i think

gameball June 17, 2008 at 5:11 pm

Ugh, he’s killing me, okay?

johnnyvegas77 June 17, 2008 at 5:11 pm

did he just jump off a treadmill and onto the podium, or did he swallow all the greenies his team’s not allowed to take anymore?

starz31 June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

no those are tears.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:11 pm

this is really bad….how he’s speaking……its a little confusing and weird listening to him… i dont know…..lol

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

Thumbs down to the reporter who asked Omar, “What were Willie’s shortcomings as a manager?”

Totally inappropriate. Omar was right not to take the bait.

Azman426 June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

Okay? …This i what I did. Okay? Okay…. Willie was not going to lead us anymore…. Okay? Okay. I review everything. Okay? We could not go on as a team, okay? I had to let him go okay?Okay.

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

wow. Omar made be a smart man, but he’s an incredibly poor speaker. The word is pronounced ask, that’s a s before k, not aks.
And how many times can you say ‘O.K.’? I just want to say no, it’s not O.K.

Whether we all agree or not agree it was time for Willie to go, this press conference with Omar is just the end of what’s been a very bizarre day for the NY Mets.

It’s like watching Busch take questions from the press. Always cringe watching that. Pretty much doing the same here listening to Omar.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

Augie Busch in a presser? Wow!

Omar may not be a smart man.

gameball June 17, 2008 at 5:15 pm

Busch?

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:23 pm

Sorry guys – you know I meant our current Prez. Trying to watch and type at the same time. Obviously I’m not multi tasking very good right now….

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

I think that he’s just trying to be honest and direct and in the emotional state that he is in right now, it’s not surprising that he doesn’t have a smooth flow to his speech. Cut him some slack, folks…

Jersey Shore Mets June 17, 2008 at 6:07 pm

Omar speaking like this is nothing new. “OK” and “uhh” have always been used 3 or 4 times per sentence. It’s very annoying.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

give him some credit hes being very honest and you can tell its emotional for him

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

bingo

backinbusiness June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

I like how he basically admitted he fired Willie because there was too much speculation that he was going to. That is the definition of dysfuctional….OK?

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:12 pm

Willie…

I said Willie…

OK…

I talked to him on the bus, OK…

Willie, OK…

I said to him, Willie, OK…

It is my decision, OK…

I decided to get on the plane, OK…

And I said, Willie, OK…

OK?

starz31 June 17, 2008 at 5:13 pm

Man, he’s very emotional. And he can’t stop stressing that this was a tough decision and that it was his decison. it was his decision. because he’s the boss…it was a tough decision, but i made it..and it was tough.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:15 pm

Staying on message, by repeating the message over and over and over and over. . . .

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:44 pm

And you know there are gonna be 10 knuckleheads after the conference who are gonna ask him whether it was his decision and how tough it was…

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 5:13 pm

if you were going to let him know right away, why did he manage that game vs the angels?

johnnyvegas77 June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

Eek. Sorry for the double post….my head is about to explode.

All in all, another bang-up job by the Mutts. All they needed was to issue a firm, well thought-out statement and address questions directly and decisively and, as usual, they got the exact opposite.

I am now calling 507-TIXX to ask for a refund.

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:46 pm

I don’t agree. I think getting up there and being emotional and speaking from the heart appeals to people a lot more than a written speech about nothing. I’m reading all these comparisons to Bush and you guys are forgetting one thing: Bush recites speeches that are pre-written for him, Omar is winging it on the fly…and he really does seem pretty emotional…not easy, fellas, not easy…

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 7:30 pm

No – my post was about Bush taking impromptu questions from the media – not his written speeches by his speech writers. His speech writers are brilliant. He should never, ever be allowed to answer media questions on his own. There is a HUGE difference. My comparison was Omar sounded exactly like him trying to answer media questions he didn’t have before hand. He did not handle it well at all. Whether or not he was sincere was not what I was commenting on…..

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:14 pm

this is so phony! he keeps saying it’s HIS decision which is B.S. he is just saying that cuz the wilpons told him to so that the organization as a whole doesn’t look bad. they told him that if he doesn’t take the blame, that they will fire him. i’d bet you anything. he keeps stuttering and saying ok and repeating himself cuz he knows he is full of it and this whole thing stinks!

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:47 pm

And you know that because you are SO involved in the Mets front office…

MetLifer June 17, 2008 at 6:17 pm

I agree 100%. When Dilpon said it was Omar’s decision and we support it… I knew he was throwing Omar under the bus. Don’t give me any BS that it wasn’t a higher-ups decision.. The team was actually turning it around the last couple of days.. and if Wags didn’t blow those 3 consecutive saves and the BP the others, the team would be on a nice little run. I think they did it in such a hurry because the offense was starting to get out of it’s funk and this would probably be their last chance to fire Willie. I think in actuality the decision was made a long time ago.. With Willie butting heads with Bernazard and his racism comments.. it was bound to happen.

mr_met June 17, 2008 at 5:15 pm

give the exact reason fool

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:15 pm

he’s nervous cuz he’s lying

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

what is he lying about?

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

about who really made this decision, and how it was handled and about his conversation with willie before he got on the bus to cali, etc. the list goes on

ravi3 June 17, 2008 at 6:07 pm

He is a general manager…he has got to be used to lying…telling the truth- now THAT’s nerve racking.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:16 pm

he just said Jerry Maunel WILL be the Manager for the REST of the year……..and he said he loves willie randolph….

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:16 pm

willie is my friend…but this aint about love

haha that was funny

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:17 pm

Enough. Someone get the hook.

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:18 pm

I think he is doing well.

He made the decision, and that was it, had to tell him right away, probably because of all the little rats scurrying around his office.

He took responsibility for the leaks, and said its a tough environment.

Lets move on, I hope the players feel some relief.

nyr2k2 June 17, 2008 at 5:18 pm

As I see it, the team needed a shakeup, and whether Manuel is the right man for the job, mission accomplished. I feel like we’re in better shape today than we were yesterday.

I couldn’t care less if we’re the laughing stock of the league. And the players shouldn’t either; if they do, then we have the wrong players to begin with, and the manager wouldn’t have made a difference.

Hopefully this will light a bit of a fire under everyone’s ass and we’ll get going. The bats are coming around, and had Wagner not blown three straight (an aberration in my mind), we’d be sitting at 37-32, and just a couple of games back.

This team is goddamn irritating and a pain to watch, but I haven’t given up hope entirely. Dropping Willie has only made me a bit more optimistic about things.

ninthwonder4 June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

does he even make sense?

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:25 pm

My opinion – no.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

Manuel has to manage for the rest of the year if they want to have an open search during the off-season. With the right incentives, the job could actually be — gasp — desirable. Many of these “incentives” have pictures of former Presidents and other historical figures.

mr_met June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

stop saying the same things over and over and over and over and over

ToastyJoe June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

I think he’s used the word “decision” about 15,000 times now.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:19 pm

omar is a very…strange guy….he mentions african american…but yet he says race has nothing to do with it…what hes saying doesnt make sense, he hasnt really given a real reason why to fire willie, now he compares the white sox with the mets……i give up..

ratatatspat June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

I could care less about race. Just hire the best manager.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

hes being a stand up dude right now…taking full responsibility. good to see

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

yes he is, he just admitted some of his signings were bad.

He is doing well under the circumstances.

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:25 pm

all because the wilpons are MAKING him say this or else HE is fired too! this was their decision. everyone knows that omar loved willie and was the ONLY one in the organization that was still fighting for him. this is all bogus. he is taking the fall for those 2 idiots!

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:31 pm

You may be rightmiker,

Although I am starting to believe the ultimate decision, whoever made it, wasn’t made until Monday and he flew out there to tell him face to face. At least I WANT to believe that. Why not do it Sunday then? Just doesn’t make sense.

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:33 pm

that’s why i think this whole think stinks. something is up and behind the scenes the mets organization seems to be a bunch of backstabbing, sneaky snakes

zer09 June 17, 2008 at 5:52 pm

You should get off the conspiracy theory and just take things for what they are. You have absolutely no knowledge about what goes on in the front office, in the clubhouse, in Wilpon’s house or in Omar’s car. All you know is what you see during the game and what you read and hear afterward. THAT does not qualify you in any way to make any kind of definitive statements. People just have to realize that in NY’s market a positive story is not a desirable one – it is the negative stories that get the most readership – so all the journalists are always on the look out for the worst side of things – while no one really ever knows even half of the truth. Just let the thing play out the way it needs to be played out and take your conspiracies somewhere else!

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:27 pm

Sorry, I couldn’t disagree with you more, dude. He might be taking some responsibility but he is not handling this press conference well at all.
And stop starting, pausing, finishing every sentence with ‘O.K.’

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

totally agree with you metsfan4decades

miker94 June 17, 2008 at 5:30 pm

you are exactly right metsfan4decades

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:33 pm

what is he supposed to say? If he is lying about who made the ultimate decision, well he probably has to.

and they didn’t hire him for his speaking skills, everyone has their limitations.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:33 pm

so what, hes telling the truth. i would rather have someone honest and not be a great public speaker, than be eloquent and untruthful,.

Roach2 June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

Not watching (at work), but Omar has never done well at speaking…even during the good days.

I dont feel for these guys because theyre millionaires and are working a dream job, but he’s in a tough position. I will respect him if he comes of out of this (meaning playoffs) with his head above water

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

he is doing fine.

johnnyvegas77 June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

I’m sorry, but couldn’t the Mets have sprung for a basic media training class? It would be pretty basic and start with this: don’t say “um and “OK” 5,000 times in 6 minutes!!! I mean, they bought that stupid tennis ball machine for Beltran!!!

loopenark June 17, 2008 at 5:20 pm

When is he going to say he’s trading delgado.

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:21 pm

did he just call us the white sox?

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

not a horrible comparison when you consider them the 2nd team of their city

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 5:22 pm

I don’t get it. Jerry Manuel was moderately successful with the Sox, but as soon as they dumped him, they skyrocketed to the top. Where’s the comparison?

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:24 pm

maybe hes the new ozzie guillen for us?

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Holy.. god.

Okay?

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:24 pm

doin it and doin it and doin it poor

i was raised out in queens and he represents brooklyn

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:26 pm

You can say what you want about his ability to give a speech if that’s important, but the truth is he is being very direct here. He’s also not going to lose his job no matter how the rest of this season pans out. Getting rid of Peterson didn’t hurt him in that respect either. He’s going to be able to go to the Wilpons and say that he helped take this team from where they were in 2004 to where they got in 2006. He’ll be able to tell them he stood by his coaches for as long as he believed he could. And he will get a chance to make a new start with a record of 0-0 next season with a new manager and whatever else he needs. Not all good politicians are great at making speeches.

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:32 pm

Sorry, but my BS meter is registering pretty high right now. If this is the best he can do, with his claim in the beginning, of being honest with the media then – Holy Mother of God….
It’s either that, or I can’t weed through his hundreds of O.K.s, not finishing his thoughts, his poor attempt at explanations to make a fair determination.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:36 pm

Hey, I’m not saying there isn’t a fair amount of BS involved. He’s not a great speaker. He is a good politician. Whatever does happen the rest of the season, he’s going to land on his feet. Doesn’t necessarily make it right.

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Wow. That was a nervous chuckle…

::cough:: LIAR ::cough::

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:26 pm

as much as i disagree with his broader statements about why willie was fired, i agree that it was the right thing to fire him as soon as he made the decision but after the ballpark.

RPsJacket June 17, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Again, it sounds like he had to fire him before the “leaks” got to the media.

How pathetic, what a backstabbing, dysfunctional group they must be.

KFS June 17, 2008 at 5:32 pm

Name me ONE organization that doesn’t have leaks!

gamblor June 17, 2008 at 5:38 pm

Plumbers union.

KFS June 17, 2008 at 5:39 pm

Besides ones that have mob connections.

ravi3 June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Gamblor….Hilarious!

starz31 June 17, 2008 at 5:27 pm

put those crazy colored glasses on…omar looks like he’s ready to throw down, he’s gettin “all you wanna do this you wanna do that aite wha you sayin about me?”

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

andthentheumpiresaidthis and then jerrycameoutandargued andthenhe said SHUT UP RANDOLPH!

I’m sorry.

Omar has to stop talking about time and facts. This is becoming a circus.

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

Based on the updates I don’t really see how he could be doing any better with the press conference. He’s in a really tough spot here.

Mr.MET June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

and the “OKAY” count keeps going…40…41…42…43…44

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:31 pm

OK?

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

Can anyone keep track of how many times Omar say “Okay?”

shiprdr19 June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

where can i get one of those “In Omar We Trust” t-shirts????

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 5:33 pm

probably the same African countries you find the “19-0″ t-shirts

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

omar is calling out whoever leaked the private discussions ahem tony bernazard

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

a lot of respect to omar right now

backinbusiness June 17, 2008 at 5:29 pm

Sometimes I get the impression that in the privacy of his own home Omar curls up into a little ball on the floor saying on an endless loop “i have full authority over baseball operations”.

cgio07 June 17, 2008 at 5:30 pm

jeez you guys are never happy are you? First everyone is mad that willie is here, now everyone is mad about how they fire him, and even closer to now everyone is making fun of how omar talks to the press about firing willie? So is everyone running out of things to complain about or..

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:32 pm

seriously, english is not his first language

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:32 pm

sunshine happy flowers birthday cake!

that better?

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:33 pm

Under the circumstances he’s handling this as well as any reasonable person could expect him to handle it.

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 5:37 pm

I agree, people are just waiting to jump on him

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 5:32 pm

Jerry Manuel has a magic wand.

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 5:35 pm

Can we officially send the “In Omar We Trust” t-shirts to Africa with the “19-0″ t-shirts?

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 5:36 pm

Thank you for asking Why did he take so long to decide to sleep on it! i was just about to post that i was waiting for someone to ask htat. But of course he doesnt really answer it. I missed what he said that “No that never happened” What?

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:36 pm

all the people disrespecting omar for his speaking skills…english is not his first language so to make fun of him for saying “OK” a lot is dumb. have you ever heard someone speak spanish, thats the natural way that they speak in between thoughts.
and also, hes telling the truth. i would rather have someone be honest and not be a great public speaker, than be eloquent and untruthful.

Necciai27 June 17, 2008 at 5:45 pm

Amen to this. Look at Jack Welch, the CEO of General Electric. If you heard that guy talk, you’d figure him for a complete dunce because he once had a stutter.

C’mon people. If we must criticize Omar, can we at least do it for his moves/handling of Ryan Church and Willie and *not* his English skills? That’s hitting below the belt.

If anyone’s seen my posts here, I doubt you’d figure ME for a moron. Well, let me tell you something…I have severe trouble speaking in public unless I’m reading off a cue card. I’ve stood and watched people make fun of “jyuuu know what I’m sayin’?” etc. just kinda idly, but I’ve really had enough.

Oh, and all you people dying for Paul DePodesta as a replacement for Omar? Well, he also has trouble speaking in public. Are you going to make fun of him, too, if we hire him? WE ARE BETTER THAN THIS! If you really want to criticize Omar, give us Heath Bell’s stats and what we got in return, Matt Lindstrom’s stats and what we got in return, letting Ryan Church play through a concussion, arguably not getting enough value for Brian Bannister, over-using Brian Lawrence last year, etc. NOT his speaking voice.

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:48 pm

you really left yourself open there.

omar says dumb things and does a lot of dumb things. that’s a recipe for disapproval.

Necciai27 June 17, 2008 at 7:50 pm

Okay, since that obviously didn’t resonate too well…

Criticize the man for his actions, not his speaking voice (read some of the comments around here?).

newyorker June 17, 2008 at 5:38 pm

Omar the humanitarian! He keeps reminding us how fair he’s being to Willie NOW. How about an explanation for why he’s been letting Randolph swinging in the breeze for all these weeks?

chicagometsfan June 17, 2008 at 5:38 pm

Has Omar touched upon, or been asked, how Tom Nieto fell into the firing line?

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:39 pm

he looks like a doofus in the coaching helmet

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 5:38 pm

Reason Willie was fired= Media made him do it..

Great now he’s talking in Spanish…Unreal

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:40 pm

How should he answer a question from ESPN Deportes? In French?

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

You know what, I never get sarcastic with anyone here, so I don’t appreciate your tone with me. Seriously.
I am in America, watching American TV, therefore hoping to listen to a press conference in English.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:45 pm

You don’t appreciate it? Too bad. It was a question from ESPN Deportes. You knew that. It’s not a press conference done for you in your living room. If you don’t like it, change the channel.

Roach2 June 17, 2008 at 5:45 pm

Umm, he was asked a question by a spanish speaking magazine. Get over yourself

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 5:50 pm

I’m not going to even try and argue what my point is. It’s not even worth it…Sometimes you guys attack people for having an opinion about something and it’s not right..

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:58 pm

You got a whole press conference out of him in which he addressed everything that was asked of him. He spoke to someone from ESPN Deportes in Spanish for about three minutes and you couldn’t deal with that. I don’t have a problem with you, but in this case I think you were wrong. Spanish speaking people support this team too, and they deserve the same opportunity to get some answers that you do.

beltran the warrior June 17, 2008 at 7:16 pm

hey dwright is king. you are aware the united states does not have an official language, right? so can the xenophobia. thanks.

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 8:56 pm

Hey beltran the warrior…..’can’ my xenophobia? You can’t be serious. You know nothing about me..And you guys absolutely did not get my point….

Tina June 17, 2008 at 9:37 pm

We get your point. We find it ridiculous and xenophobic.

DerangedHermit June 17, 2008 at 5:39 pm

Reason #1 to fire Omar: he considered Dusty Baker.

metsjam June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

#1?

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:39 pm

“I’M A HUGGER”

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:40 pm

Is he saying OK in Spanish?

TiredMetsFan June 17, 2008 at 5:41 pm

Si

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 5:41 pm

Stop you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lol

KFS June 17, 2008 at 5:40 pm

damn, Omar didn’t say okay in Spanish! WTF!?

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 5:41 pm

Ha ha, I love the summary in Spanish he’s giving

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:41 pm

I want to see Omar in a NY Lottery commercial with Lil Bit A Luck.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

maybe he needs lots a luck instead

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

wade boggs looks disgusting… anyone remember the maxim article about him?

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 5:47 pm

he looks like he’s good friends with giuseppe franco…that dude was totaly bald 10 years ago.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:43 pm

jerry looks ecstatic

Roach2 June 17, 2008 at 5:44 pm

I thought he was going to say, “I would hug Cox”

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:46 pm

Seriously, who doesn’t wanna hug Cox?

Because as we all know… Cox Rocks.

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 5:45 pm

It seems so weird that Manuel is being introduced as NEW YORK METS manager with Angel logos in the background :)

the clap June 17, 2008 at 5:53 pm

The Mets should’ve just taken things outdoors a few miles away to The Happiest Place On Earth with Donald, Goofy, Pluto, etc. Would have beeen a far more apropos setting for Omar to talk and apologize about the Mickey Mouse way things have been run.

cleonsvan June 17, 2008 at 8:37 pm

Settle down -

This type of move has been standard operating procedure for the Yankee organization for more than 3 decades. Making winning a priority, firing managers early in the season. Talk about class Yankee fans – your beloved own catcher Yogi wouldn;t even set foot inside the Stadium for 20 years because he was treated so shabby by Steinbrenner. If this isn’t the pot calling the kettle black I don’t know what is. Its just fine when Skankees do it in the name of trying to win but for the Mets – Its “whoa hold on” or “what a class-less move.” Total BS.

Personally I’m fed up with putting up with mediocrity. I lived through too many bad years over the last 40 where the managers would play out the whole year no matter how bad the team stunk it up. This was the right move. The worst part about it was that it was a week too late
But lets give credit to the Wilpons for not standing pat and trying to change the dynamic of the team with still enough time in the season to get to the playoffs. Get with it people and

Lets

Go

Mets

forever.

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 5:46 pm

Omar left the podium finally. Seriously, that dude is looking for a couple of drinks now. I didn’t care for his press conference but I feel for him and I’m sure he’s glad THAT’s over.

Now on to Jerry…

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 5:49 pm

omar was so defensive. it was very offputting and definitely not a good way to be when you’re supposed to be a businessman

lambay June 17, 2008 at 5:48 pm

David Wright at DH tonight! Well I suppose that’s a change

KFS June 17, 2008 at 5:48 pm

Has Jerry been sharing those roster ideas with Willie?

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 5:49 pm

Wright’s streak will finally come to an end tonight ” :( ”
I already like Jerry.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:51 pm

no hes still in the lineup so hes technically playing every inning

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 5:58 pm

Oh, i know he still is in the line-up, but i thought that if he isnt playing in the bottom of the inning, he isnt playing a FULL inning.

lambay June 17, 2008 at 5:49 pm

David Wright at DH tonight! Well I suppose that’s a change for the better I suppose

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 5:50 pm

manuel is well-spoken.

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:53 pm

yes, i was thinking the same thing. this is VERY refreshing to my ears.

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 5:55 pm

i like almost all of what he’s saying. i really hope it translates and the team listens.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:53 pm

I used to talk to him a lot at Spring Training. I’m not saying I knew him or that he would even recognize me today. I talked to him strictly as a Mets fan talking to a very approachable coach like a lot of other Mets fans did. He’s a great guy, and I’m only saying this because I want to see people give him a chance. He is going to do everything he can with this opportunity and take it as far as he can. As a fan, and as a guy who was lucky enough to get to speak to him from time to time, I’m very excited for him.

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 5:56 pm

i really like that he’s being respectful to willie, but at the same time he’s not afraid to say what he’d do differently.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

I’m not saying he’s going to turn this thing around overnight, and I still think they need to shake up the roster a little bit if they can. But this guy is world class all the way. I have faith, which is more than I could say when I went to bed last night.

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 6:04 pm

i feel better, too. i like his demeanor, at least before the first losing streak. now i just have to not turn on WFAN or ESPN Radio for a week.

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 5:50 pm

Fudgeknuckles, I am so ready to watch the game tonight!

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:51 pm

very eloquent and i think the players will play hard for him and respect him

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:51 pm

jerry seems like he is gunna be like willie..laid back, careless, not a firey guy with his players,nd i hope he proves me wrong with what i said, nd i also hope he changes the lineup in a good way.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 5:55 pm

He is a laid back guy, but can be quite fiery when it’s called for, as we saw in the Yankee game a few weeks back. He got thrown out of more than a few games in Chicago too for whatever that’s worth.

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 5:52 pm

wow, sandy is the bench coach

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

HUGE HUGE HUGE yes!

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

LOL! :)

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 5:52 pm

ACK?!?!?!?!?

Oberkfell wasting away at first base? Crap…

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

manuel probably needs someone he knows as his bench coach, especially in this situation.

gipper82475 June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

Manuel was our 1B coach not long ago, and is now manager. Patience, grasshopper.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:53 pm

alomar is not the 3rd base coach anymore he is now the bench coach according to manuel

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 5:55 pm

:( I’m going to miss seeing that little guy waving his arm around

Met_Zombie June 17, 2008 at 5:53 pm

didnt jerry get kicked out of a game more times then willie since they have been here?

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

JERRY! JERRY! JERRY!

sirk June 17, 2008 at 5:56 pm

lmfao u read my mind! i was gunna write that exact thing lol !

KFS June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

Sandy Alomar no longer 3rd base coach…woohoo!!!!

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

kind of strange oberkfell is the first base coach. a former AAA manager ‘promoted’ to holding batting gloves for the guys?

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 5:57 pm

easing him into the major league ranks

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

i would think 3rd would be more apropos for someone used to making big managerial decisions…?

metinDC23 June 17, 2008 at 6:49 pm

I would think they don’t wanna put Manuel’s most likely replacement in that high a position.

Its already a tough situation for him.

No_Brain_Willie June 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

better to be flying first class charter from New York to LA than a bus ride from N’awlins to Iowa.

lambay June 17, 2008 at 5:54 pm

and no more Sandy sending Schneider from 3rd base!

BlueCapsOnly June 17, 2008 at 5:55 pm

Go Jerry, already made a good move. No more Sandy alomar at 3rd base!

MetsFanInVegas June 17, 2008 at 5:58 pm

I don’t know about you guys but I’m getting excited with Jerry as the new manager.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

I’m with you.

MetsFan4Decades June 17, 2008 at 7:39 pm

Whether or not anyone of us agree with the Willie firing, the fact they did it, the fact they needed to name a manager, even if for the interim, I think Jerry was a good choice too.
Haven’t had anything to feel excited about in a few months with this team so I’m on board with ya all….

metsomniac June 17, 2008 at 5:58 pm

jerry is a cool motha… shut your mouth.

Piazza3120 June 17, 2008 at 5:58 pm

This press conference is a joke. These guys are clueless. My show goes on in 2 minutes so hope to hear from you and CALL IN!!!!

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

hahahahaha thats hilarious

nydre78 June 17, 2008 at 5:59 pm

Minaya continues to say that, the reason he told Randolph at 11 pm PDT, was because, he knew, the minute he made this decision it would not take much for a third-party source to leak the information.

…which makes no sense…unless that third-party source as a mind reader…

True Matt…..unless Omar knows who the leaker is *cough-cough* Bernazard *cough*

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

All this he’s saying about running and stealing bases in context… Maybe his time with the White Sox will foster a more AL style of game.

archie June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

wAS that a knock on Reyes

ryno June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

Jerry sounds good.

Lets go Mets!

gipper82475 June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

Manuel is well spoken, sort of intellectual sounding but with a good rapport with the press. All of that is already a change.

sirk June 17, 2008 at 6:00 pm

jerry sounds mad chillll, but remember it still comes down to players performing..nd sorry for all these comments, every since they banned me from the chatbox at metsmerized cuz i cursed out a phillies fan (go figure) ive been here more and if someone here can plz do me the favor to tell them to unblock the IP adress 98.113.15.34
-thanks

Slappy McDoubleton June 17, 2008 at 6:11 pm

just go through a proxy server.

dr jones June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

wow I’m really impressed.. I never knew how connected Omar was in the Hollywood scene. No wonder he waited until the Mets got to LA for a managerial change.

Morgan Freeman is the new manager of the Metropolitans..

gipper82475 June 17, 2008 at 6:03 pm

LOL

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:05 pm

seriously, i always though he looked like him, but never knew he sounded like him

metsomniac June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

I like him… i mean if the mets lose ten in a row i may change my mind, but right now i really like him

dwright57 June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

i see a nice 3-1 loss coming tonight with santana pitching great and the bullpen coughs it up

we still suck

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:01 pm

i’d love to have new owners too. they have never handled the media well. it starts from the top. classless.

lets go mets.

ravi3 June 17, 2008 at 6:14 pm

an ownership that funds its own stadium, starts its own regional sports network, and coughs out $140 Mill is pretty good in my book..

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:27 pm

the wilpons have zero championships as sole owners.

they didn’t even want piazza. doubleday made that happen.

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:30 pm

i do think fred wilpon is a good guy though. his son “paris” wilpon…

Bats in the Belfry June 17, 2008 at 6:53 pm

It seems like at least one of the Wilpon’s broke a golden rule of Don Vito Corleone, “Never let anyone outside the family know what you’re thinking”

Lets clean the egg off our faces get some more eggs and put them in shoes or whatever twisted euphemism those rebs in atlanta use and win the next 10 out of 12 for the fans guys

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

“Take my right to the house!”
This guy is goooooooood!

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 6:04 pm

that was hysterical!

Mookie1986 June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

Jerry certainly talks a good game. Has a good sense of humor about the fact that Omar will be coming for him at the end of the season.

But I also thought Randolph was a good guy as well. Just didn’t think he was right for this position. time will tell with Manuel.

Tully June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

LOL. Jerry sounds like a really cool guy

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

i am really falling hard for his smooth baritone voice

WrightsRight June 17, 2008 at 6:05 pm

….that was John Coltrane’s version of My Favorite Things. Coming up, a rare nugget from Cannonball Adderly…stick with us…88.3 Jazz Radio.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:02 pm

that joke about never taking off the uniform was classic

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:03 pm

change can be good.

bring in ponce de leon too.

NY Cuban June 17, 2008 at 6:03 pm

Total confidence in Jerry Manuel!!!

LETS GO METS!!! LETS GO METS!!!

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 6:07 pm

we’ll see how you feel after a mets loss ;)

WrightsRight June 17, 2008 at 6:03 pm

Dude, gotta say this guy can also have a job as a DJ on a jazz radio station…what a great voice. If he fails here (hopefully not), he’s got a career in voiceovers….

anyway, i like what he’s said so far…

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 6:04 pm

Crackin’ jokes, makin’ plans. I like it.

Sasseroni June 17, 2008 at 6:05 pm

Jerry for the rest of the year? Forget it, no reason to even bother. How a guy that’s had so much input into the team already this year somehow will make a difference is beyond me. It’s the same as Willie, only now Omar gets the Latin manager he’s been dying to have.

Awesome.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:08 pm

he was born in georgia

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 6:08 pm

um, manuel is not latino.

egnirc June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Um, he was born in Georgia and African American.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

LOL.
You know where he’s from?
Georgia.
And as far as I know… I won’t speak for him… but he ain’t Latin.

Jova1931 June 17, 2008 at 6:10 pm

Ignorant comments such as these no longer surprise me. I thought people were better than that. Open your minds people.

adam11216 June 17, 2008 at 6:12 pm

believe it or not, craig cartin brought up the “fact” that manuel is latino on the WFAN farce of a sports talk morning show today.

TenTonHammer June 17, 2008 at 8:41 pm

Way to show your inner racist, dummy.

Good one.

Jova1931 June 17, 2008 at 6:06 pm

Jeez, Jerry looks like he’s going to handle the media very well.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:07 pm

Nice way to wrap it up on WFAN… “We have a tremendous responsibility to the fans of New York.”

KFS June 17, 2008 at 6:07 pm

Why is Jerry saying what we’ve been talking about all month?! This guy gets it!!!

metsjam June 17, 2008 at 6:18 pm

I suspect that if Jerry did not have any fundamental changes in store for the Mets, if he was totally in step with Willie, he would not have been kept on.

TheBigStapler June 17, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Ah man, Mike and the Mad Dog cut off Manuel to talk to Omar. My mind was almost at ease for a second.

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 6:25 pm

You could have watched it live on MLB.com. Ah well, I’m sure they’ll still have it available.

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 6:11 pm

Omar’s on the FAN

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

wow, Mad Dog just went a little crazy on Omar!

tinathemetsgrl June 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

Angry Puppy needs to be put down.

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 6:16 pm

wow, a little awkward…

dwright57 June 17, 2008 at 6:11 pm

I HATE BUSTER ONLEY………………..HE DONT KNOW JACK!!!

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 6:11 pm

I really really like this guy. Right before he spoke I was just sick of this organization and everything but i feel a lot better about some things. THANK YOU JERRY!!!!

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:13 pm

mike and mad dog make me wanna off myself

sirk June 17, 2008 at 6:16 pm

wow he’s mouthing off to omar

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

I’m a bit confused with Randolph’s comments today describing how he was very surprised and shocked by the happenings. Unless I’m interpreting Minaya’s quote inaccurately, than it seems as if Minaya goes on to explain how Randolph was “in the loop” with at least the potential happenings.

“He and Randolph have been in contact about this last week, Minaya said, and he told Randolph that there is pressure and, “he needed to find a way to get it done.”

KFS June 17, 2008 at 6:15 pm

Omar just totally stuck it to Russo!

Slappy McDoubleton June 17, 2008 at 6:17 pm

Does this dude know that he doesn’t have to scream into the microphone when he’s talking to Omar?

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:19 pm

Terrible job in a big spot by Russo here. Little too loosey-goosey.

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 6:19 pm

what did he say?

KFS June 17, 2008 at 6:25 pm

When Dbag made the point that the Mets just won 4 out of 5 and he shouldn’t get fired, Omar, in a nice way, pretty much asked him if he’s watched the Mets all season.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:17 pm

michelle and the angry poodle

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 6:19 pm

I don’t agree with the way Omar’s handled all of this but I think Mad Dog is completely out of line here.

ravi3 June 17, 2008 at 6:22 pm

Russo won’t let Omar even finish explaining his answers

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 6:25 pm

I am stunned. He is in pure attack mode.

marvelousmarv June 17, 2008 at 6:39 pm

Thats Russo’s downfall. Very’s few times have I seen/heard him cool and collected. He doesn’t think about it things before he says them. And it feels like his only game plan plan before doing an interview under these circumstances is to attack!

metropolitans June 17, 2008 at 6:19 pm

Jerry sounds like a genius. What a breathe of fresh air. Let’s get over this drama and move on already.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:20 pm

yo russo stop playing with your foot fungus i dont wanna see that. and also stop screaming into his ear, have some respect man

anonymii June 17, 2008 at 6:20 pm

Fire Bernazard and i’ll call it even.

BlueCapsOnly June 17, 2008 at 6:23 pm

comment showing up?

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 6:23 pm

Listening to these guys going back and forth, I have to say that I don’t really sympathize with Willie for being left to twist in the wind. I don’t agree with it, but I don’t feel bad for him for it either. I feel bad for the players who had to sit under a black cloud and try to play through it all this time. Willie villified the team’s own network, along with the fans who he said were hiding before he took the job. He talked about being a victim of racism, but did absolutely nothing to back such a serious charge up. He apologized because he thought it was off the record, which is not the same as being sorry for saying what he said. The fact is, he did a lot of damage to the team on and off the field with that article. He probably should have been fired within a couple of days after that.

Mex_17 June 17, 2008 at 8:36 pm

Amen!!! And yet all we hear over and over and over is what a “classy” guy Randolph is.

What MLB manager (aside from maybe Guillen) can you say is NOT classy? Why does everyone keep saying it about Randolph?

Not to mention his loony attacks on SNY, Met fans, “racists”…I don’t see how he behaved so “classy”.

MainStMets23 June 17, 2008 at 6:23 pm

keith just askd if he would manage if asked…

his answer?

no, i like it too much up in the booth, and i dont feel id be ready for that yet

so theres our answer abt the stache

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:24 pm

yet

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:24 pm

going from manuel’s voice to russo’s is like relaxing in a comfortable hot tub and then being struck by lightning

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:25 pm

classic.

garykeithron June 17, 2008 at 6:32 pm

actually going from manuel’s to omar’s was like that too

dominicanboy08 June 17, 2008 at 6:26 pm

I like that jerry will have definite roles in the bullpen

wagner-9 inn
sanchez-8 inn
smith-feliciano-7 inn
heilman-scho-6 inn
vargas- long man

no heilman in the 8 inn, no scho in the 8 inn, no sanchez in the 7 inn

KFS June 17, 2008 at 6:27 pm

Russo just asked (no kidding) “Omar, how comes you get to pick Willie’s staff but Willie don’t get to pick yours?”

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:28 pm

i know, that was the stupidest question ever

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:28 pm

yeah i really think the guy is has a chromosome defect

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:28 pm

omar just busted a nut in their face with that whole “does your whole staff get along?”

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:29 pm

it’s hard not to like omar.

dykstraw II June 17, 2008 at 6:32 pm

i don’t think he can adapt to the new realities of the baseball business, but that has nothing to do with how he handled this managerial decision.

zen June 17, 2008 at 6:35 pm

the handling of the firing was 100% on the wilpons. no way a class guy like omar would do that.

as per adapting…we see about his drafts in a few years. it’s clear that he’s a good gm who tried to win too quickly with the aging vets.

The Glider June 17, 2008 at 6:30 pm

Omar still hasn’t answered the question about Bernazard . . . that’s, obviously, because it’s true about Tony and Willie.

Michael.Fidler June 17, 2008 at 6:31 pm

With all due respect (or lack thereof; however you want to you look at it…in the words of Omar Minaya PERCEPTION)…I did not like the way the Mets handled the situation with Willie, you do not dangle your manager like that its wrong. Notice how Donnie Walsh waited until the end of the season instead of getting rid of Isiah Thomas (granted it was near the end of the season), but people said this was a smart move. You do not put you’re manager on the line the way they did. You don’t let morons like Tony Bernazard, who from what my sources tell me (and they are pretty acurate), leak information to people. This man was out of line, and Omar weakly chastised him in the press conference (not by name thought). Matt when you say all Mets fans, you are talking about the ones that are on your site along with the 40 some odd thousand fans that make it to the stadium, which you should know, does not constitute a majority. I’ve gone after you before because of this and will do so when I feel necessary. But please, when you state facts (or claim that they are facts) you are not providing samples. I would like you to show everyone, how many people participated in these polls you show online. if i had to guess, the number does not even come close to a majority, so the information is not reputable, infact it could be inaccurate and you know it. So report it correctly, or do not report it at all.

bigdan June 17, 2008 at 7:06 pm

the fans on this site are a large enough sample so that the numbers can be seen as a good enough representation of what the fans feel. i have seen this arguement several times, and its just plain stupid. i guarantee you if you polled every single mets fan alive that you would get similar results.

you dont have any sources. this is just a lie to try to give yourself credibility. this situation cannot be compared to the situation with donnie walsh and isiah thomas.

your english sucks and your logic is also pretty bad. i agree with some of your opinions but you just make yourself seem like an idiot.

Michael.Fidler June 17, 2008 at 7:24 pm

i would just like to know…as i just did a poll, how many people do you think participate in a poll on this website…get back to me…

The Glider June 17, 2008 at 6:32 pm

Ask Omar about the move HE made that contributed to the team’s problems.

How about making a change in left field?

How about the change at second base?

How about the decision re Church?

DWright is King June 17, 2008 at 6:40 pm

During the press conference, Omar said something along the lines of the players all really want to win. Does he really believe that? I feel like he doesn’t want to put any blame on these guys. He needs to wake up and realize this team he put together is not clicking. And he needs to start addressing the issues you stated above. He’s the one on the Hot Seat now..

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 6:35 pm

Whether people like Omar’s decision or not — he just seems like a guy that we’d want on our side.

dominicanboy08 June 17, 2008 at 6:39 pm

omar minaya is great general manager, no one is perfect, yes he has made a few errors, but he knows what he is doing

The Glider June 17, 2008 at 6:52 pm

The reason why the team is where it’s at today is because of the decisions Omar made. Now, he’s made Willie take the fall for his mistakes. Delgado could give a rats ass; he just goes through the motions. Church? A front office screw up of monumental proportions. Alou? All Omar’s fault. No replacement for Alou? Omar’s fault. Making a mess of Willie’s firing and contributing greatly to the Mets look like a bush-league organization? Omar.

slanginsanjuan June 17, 2008 at 7:09 pm

yes i tend to agree with you, BUT, the Wilpon’s don’t properly empower him either. I’m sure the politics there are unbelievable. I’m sure the rich son causes monumental problems like in most other family run organizations, ie. Knicks, NY Times, Tishman Speyer, etc….

branzan13 June 17, 2008 at 11:39 pm

I agree Minaya has to take part of the blame with the team he put together for Willie to manage, He brought Alou is he ever healthy, maybe 10 years ago would have been a good acquisition. At least with Brady Clark you have a healthy body. How come no right handed bench player and Willie has to use Cancel that saved Willie game 2 of the doubleheader. Minaya has to take a big part of the blame. Its not Willie fault that Wagner blows 3 games in a row and that Delgado cant hit for power anymore. Willie is taking the blame for Minaya’s mess of players that he brought in. Willie manages the players he is dealt with. I just wish should have waited a little bit longer the season is a long long way to go.

slanginsanjuan June 17, 2008 at 7:04 pm

are you biased brother?

metsfan119 June 17, 2008 at 6:42 pm

Omar definitely has charisma, unfortunately that doesn’t necessarily translate to putting a good team on the field

The Glider June 17, 2008 at 6:53 pm

” . . . you know what I’m saying?”

sirk June 17, 2008 at 6:43 pm

now, its back to focusing on winning games, players performing, and getting to where we need to be.

marvelousmarv June 17, 2008 at 6:47 pm

Maddog should be taken off the air. Francesa is more qualified to do those interviews.

nova86 June 17, 2008 at 6:47 pm

i could handle adam schein on the radio BUT having to see that mug along with his stupid opinions AND listening to his weird voice AND let me give you a nugget BUT this is ridiculous AND its a travesty AND what do you think fat bald guy?

Philnym31 June 17, 2008 at 6:56 pm

Why can’t SNY get rid of Loudmouths and Beer Money?
Adam Schein and Chris Carlin are so ridiculous to listen to.

kendychavez June 17, 2008 at 7:11 pm

all these guys analysts/writers/radio guys are idiots. fear of hearing scott ferrell has prevented me from watching sny for anything but games

Bell June 17, 2008 at 7:02 pm

I thought he handled it well enough. At least he said something concrete. A lot of the questions he was asked all revolved around the same topic, so he repeated a lot of course. Though, I was just waiting for him to curse off the media, when he was talking about perception and all the leaks, rumors, and third parties. He looked after some questions, during the media, he really just wanted to explode xD But he did make a legit point- the media does put a lot of pressure on how fast news reaches players and managers, and if he wanted to tell Willie before he found out from a third party, then who cares if its 3 am here, it was midnight there, the actions still going on there.

I was also waiting for someone to ask him about the security of his job, after he said he puts a lot of blame on himself.

By the way Jerry says ‘good question’ waaayy too much

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 7:14 pm

“By the way Jerry says ‘good question’ waaayy too much”

Give him some time. It’s been a long time since he had to do this.

On another note, it was reported a little while ago that Omar wanted to hear from players who were interested in coming to him in private to support of Willie as manager. Nobody took him up on it. Nobody.

AlreadyMissShea June 17, 2008 at 7:15 pm

sorry, should have said “in support of Willie”

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:13 pm

Next move drop 3rd catcher and bring up Jose Valentin. Valentin would be a great addition during at time of transition. Besides why would we need a 3rd catcher?

kendychavez June 17, 2008 at 7:15 pm

so castro can pinch hit once a month

Slappy McDoubleton June 17, 2008 at 7:24 pm

Castro pinch hit?!?!?!

Cancel’s eating on a roll.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 7:17 pm

Also familiar w/ Manuel! Bet Manuel suggested his signing. . . .

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:23 pm

Whose signing? You lost me.

toomanyuniforms June 17, 2008 at 7:25 pm

Valentin’s — back in ‘06.

bigdan June 17, 2008 at 7:14 pm

i did not get to watch any of the press conference, but based on what i am reading i like what i am getting so far from manuel.

i like his approach to last years collapse. i think it will be good to have solid roles set in the bullpen. i am looking forward to whatever other changes jerry may make. i am much more optimistic about him being the manager than i was when i first learned of his position change.

hi5wright June 17, 2008 at 7:55 pm

You can watch the entire thing on MLB.COM. Its an hour, but its worth the watch.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:22 pm

I like the idea of using the #2 spot to get guys going. I wonder if it will be Wright or Delgado in the 2 spot?
Reyes, Wright, Beltran, Delgado, Nixon, Schneider, Castillo, Endy? Damn thats a week 4-9.
Ok maybe I dont like that idea.

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 7:23 pm

I wonder how badly the NY Media now wants these NY Mets to sink like an injured battleship? They’ve drooled these past few-months with the Days of Our Lives – NY Mets Style soap opera, and now they have the most popular pink-slip in NYC to talk about.

What happens if us Mets Fans get our wish — We Win, Win, and Win some more?? The day I read a critic kiss Omar’s rear would be the same day that I can fire my own boss.

Nevertheless, if . . . well, I’m not gonna say it cause the Mets will be just fine. I wouldn’t want to give the backstabbers for a dolla people the spotlight.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:26 pm

Wow, go figure, Bill Madden just ripped the Mets.

Jolting Joe June 17, 2008 at 7:31 pm

Valentin is batting .167 in AAA. I’d like to see him back up, but not until he gets it together–which may not happen at this stage of his career.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:35 pm

Missed that. I remember him having a 4-4 night, I did not realize that was his only hits of the season.

Really Carl Pavano June 17, 2008 at 7:35 pm

testing 123

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:38 pm

It’s working, just slow. Prob. screening every comment right now.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:36 pm

I think Manuel needs to change the lineup as much as possible tonight just to show that he is in charge and is different from Willie. I don’t know who I would put where but just change it up.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:43 pm

????
Reyes, Nixon, Beltran, Wright, Delgado, Easley, Schneider, Endy, Castillo?

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 7:46 pm

That’s <i<if he’s different from Willie.

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 7:47 pm

That’s if he’s different from Willie.

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:50 pm

Even if he is not, I think he will try and be. I am sure he would like to keep the job and he might if he turned this around and came close to or made the playoffs.

Metdamage June 17, 2008 at 7:39 pm

Funny comment by Jeter from the Post.

Jeter said he didn’t know the Mets had fired Randolph until early this afternoon.

“I found out maybe about an hour ago,” Jeter said. “‘Cause I’m not up at 3 o’clock in the morning.”

MetsFan234 June 17, 2008 at 7:39 pm

Matt, you must have had a pretty busy time over there. Omar seemed to be ticked off when reporters were asking of the bigger questions. I hope that Jerry Manuel can get the job done. We’ll find out.

ebfnyc June 17, 2008 at 7:41 pm

i have a hard time believing minaya

Metdamage June 17, 2008 at 7:42 pm

Jeter said he didn’t know the Mets had fired Randolph until early this afternoon.

“I found out maybe about an hour ago,” Jeter said. “‘Cause I’m not up at 3 o’clock in the morning.”

MainStMets23 June 17, 2008 at 7:44 pm

i think from the presser what we can take about manuel is that he really does realize that something, anything must change in order for this ball club to be successful this season….now what he will do to make it happen is anyones guess but i believe we will finally see defined roles in the pen, where guys know exactly when and where they will be used, and i htink he will make some subtle changes to the lineup, be it beltran in the 2 hole, delgado sitting, maybe a AA guy gettin the call up, something will change, the team has been playin better the last 10 games, lets hope we can get into a nice little rhythmn, with our guys and win some ball games

NCMetsGuy June 17, 2008 at 7:52 pm

These next 2 hours before the game are going to kill me. I want to know the lineup and get this game going.

MainStMets23 June 17, 2008 at 7:55 pm

when the entire reg lineup is healthy enough to play:

reyes
beltran
wright
church
delgado
nixon
schiender
castillo

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 8:09 pm

there are 4 lefties in a row… plus, youre also counting out alou coming back..

MainStMets23 June 17, 2008 at 9:26 pm

alou is done bro, youve got to be blind not to see that

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 7:55 pm

Knowing that Johan takes centerstage and Beltran takes centerfield — that makes me ready.

slanginsanjuan June 17, 2008 at 8:17 pm

bro, your blog is looking terrible. if it’s under construction or something you shouldn’t link to it.

koosman3669 June 17, 2008 at 7:56 pm

Matt, Enough already. Fix the standing and lets go.

D-Day June 17, 2008 at 7:59 pm

well here we are. honestly im not sad to see willie go. this team was underperforming badly with the roles of the players constantly in flux. for a team that needed consistency and leadership there was none to be found. but in defense of willie this really was handled bad. willie is still a stand up guy. this organization couldve given him the axe anytimei in the last month and looked ok. instead omar F’d it up and in the process made the whole organization look like a joke. willie should have been handled better but because hes become a victim he will find work again so dont feel to bad. he needed to go but he will be fine. whats done is done now lets look forward. jerry manuel has a point. instead of forgetting the collapse it should be used as fuel for the fire. everyone wants to bash this team, well lets start knocking these teams in the teeth and show them whats up. these players should be frustrated and they should take it out on whatever poor opponent is in front of them. we wanted this so jerry, you have our support. us against the world and it starts tonight.
NOW LETS GO METS!!!!!!!

thebloggersbeat June 17, 2008 at 8:00 pm

I truly do not hope that the only difference between Randolph and Manuel is a pair of glasses. Cmon Jerry — get tossed your first-game baby!

EliPorter June 17, 2008 at 8:11 pm

that would seem way too contrived… he should be himself, not what the fans want him to be. the guy can manage- lets let him do his job

metsgo June 17, 2008 at 8:20 pm

There is no differance to willie and manuel the same old sad team is playing on the feild after the mets lose tonight we will come down off this temporary high and realaze that the heartless and gutless team that omar assembled is still out there

pac_manjones June 17, 2008 at 8:09 pm

“Gangster’s get on the field, ladies get on the bus.” Jerry Manuel

Best quote of the presser, I’m going to like this guy. As I told you all earlier, the man is an OG. You’d never hear something like this out of Willie’s mouth. Let’s go Jerry! Let’s go Mets!

slanginsanjuan June 17, 2008 at 8:20 pm

what’s up Pac…you hard. you gonna give Matt some props for his news conference coverage or you gonna assault him?

MainStMets23 June 17, 2008 at 8:36 pm

hey hey believe it or not, keith does still work for sny, guy gets more time off than a guy out on disability

whens last time he worked a series ?

John The Mets Fan June 17, 2008 at 8:38 pm

Matt

I agree with most of your observations. The media is livid that they weren’t “in” on what was going on until it was too late to meet their deadlines. It is absolutely ridiculous how they are reacting. Listening to Mike and the Dog this afternoon was unbearable as these Met haters deride the organization at the top of their lungs. Absolutely insane. And for any Yankee fan to criticize how the Mets fire a manager is ludicrous (think Steinbrenner and Billy Martin). As a long-suffering Mets fan I will say that I support Omar’s move to fire Willie, I’ve been calling for it since the collapse in September and totally understand Omar’s explanation as to why he did it now. What the media is too dumb to understand is that this is NOT about the past 2 weeks or the past 2 months. The mediocre and painful baseball has been going on for about a year now, and its completely the organization’s perogative to fire Willie. The die was cast when Willie made his racial comments and criticized SNY (the Mets), it was just a matter of time. Its nothing personal, just business. Plain and simple.

TenTonHammer June 17, 2008 at 9:09 pm

The media is active 24 hours a day. They may miss print deadlines, but that’s all. TV, Radio, and the Web is 24-7. They may have upset the beat writers, but let’s not pretend they sneaked this past anyone.

John The Mets Fan June 17, 2008 at 10:13 pm

Well that was my point, and I was reiterating Matt’s comment about missing the story. It was 3 am Eastern time, and almost nobody was around to print it, email it, blog about it whatever. And I dont believe the Mets tried to sneak it past anyone. Whats done is done. Enough already. Although Wille may or may not be a nice guy, he will be remembered in Mets history as a big tease. Let’s play some baseball…..

steve333 June 18, 2008 at 2:19 am

Right now I am no longer a Mets fan until Omar Minaya is fired.
To replace a Willie Randolph with the latino version of him is just absurd.
I’m sick if Omar and his corps polluting my team.

Ken Oberkell or Wally Backman were who the fans wanted to take his place. And, yes, we wanted Willie fired, but not like this. Tacky and disgraceful.

Until the Mets fire Omar, I am officially retired.

John The Mets Fan June 18, 2008 at 6:57 am

Er….um, Steve. Jerry Manuel is not Latino. I dont know where all these “fans” get their info from. He’s African American. He was born in Georgia……please get your facts straight before posting.

Comments on this entry are closed.

Previous post:

Next post: