So Much for that All-Star Job

Every New York Mets fan in the world breathed a sigh of relief this morning when they woke up and realized their prayers had been answered while they slept.

Manager Willie Randolph was finally canned, 10 weeks into one of the most disappointing seasons in the club's history. For a $138 million payroll, they sure do stink. Interim coach Jerry Manuel will try to turn things around for a team that has been unable to recover from their epic 2007 collapse.

Also let go were horrid pitching coach Rick Peterson and first base coach Tom Nieto.

Looks like Willie can forget about that sweet NL coaching job at this year's All-Star game.

[NY Daily News]

The Pressure is On

Who would have thought that after their huge winter blockbuster adding even more promise to an already talented team, Willie Randolph would be worrying about job security?

After the 23-25 New York Mets' miserable 4-1 loss Sunday to the struggling Colorado Rockies, who are without their five best hitters, even more strain is on Randolph and his $140 million team, who have been called out for a lack of effort. We're looking at you, Jose Reyes.

The skipper is meeting with club brass today, which some Mets fans hope means he gets fired. When asked if he thought he'd have a job after the meeting, Randolph replied, "I don't see why not."

Really, Willie? You don't? Aside from your ridiculous comments last week, your Mets have dropped six of seven and nine of thirteen. Also, they're averaging 2.4 runs over their last seven, making it more than difficult to win ballgames.

Maybe a few phone calls from former teammate Reggie Jackson will help?

[Newsday]

Mets Show Willie Some Love

The New York Mets and manager Willie Randolph agreed Wednesday to a $5.65 million contract extension that runs through 2009.

Randolph, who last year led the Mets to their first division title since 1988, was supposed to earn $700,000 this year in the final season of a three-year agreement. Under this new deal, his salary will be doubled to $1.4 million. He'll get $2 million next year and $2.25 million in 2009, with a $2.5 million option for 2010 if the Mets choose to keep him around.