Dec. 26: Time for the Mets to issue deadline
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- December
- 26
The more I think about it, and the more I read, the less I am inclined to think the Yankees are interested in Barry Zito, even if they unload Randy Johnson. Again, if the Yankees really want him, they have the money to get this done right now.
Meanwhile, the Mets are either dragging their feet or playing chicken with Scott Boras.
Jeff Suppan is off the market, which takes away an option, but even without that, the Mets seem to hold most of the leverage. Reportedly, the Giants and Seattle are interested, but neither has made an offer, and neither want to give six years for a pitcher. No other teams have been mentioned, but then again do a roll call and see what teams are willing to pay that much.
Right, not many.
If I’m the Mets, I put my best offer on the table now and say “take it or leave it.” If Zito really wants the Mets, he’ll come. As of now, Boras hasn’t been able to play one team against another, and there’s no guarantee he’ll be able to entice the Yankees. If the market is coming to the Mets, they should push the envelope now.
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John –
I read an interview where Zito seemed to compare himself to Koufax. He also mentioned wanting to have a conversation with the owner – Fred Wilpon is the owner, not Jeff. Is Zito just a bit too arrogant?
John,
I totally agree with you. Set the deadline, if he doesn't sign, forget him. Go on to plan B, which might be waiting until the Trade Deadline, and picking up an Ace for a good minor leaguer…whatever. But, to me, Zito just isn't worth wasting the entire offseason on. John, give Omar a call, tell him that BDID agrees, and he'll listen!
If the Yankees trade RJ, i think offering a deadline would be a major mistake by Omar.
I've read reports from both camps about how trading Randy Johnson is or isnt directly related to Cashman's interest in Zito.
At this point, we don't know what to expect, but if Omar puts that type of pressure on Boras and Zito when they've shown the will to hold out the negotiations until they get the deal with the team they want, you can hear Mets fans around the country scream in agony when he slots in behind Wang in the Bronx.
John,
I agree with you.
You don't want to get dragged into an auction. Evaluate what he is worth and what you want to pay.
Put it up and say here it is. Do you want it? If they don't you pull the offer, don't make a scene but pull it nevertheless.
Then start looking elsewhere. If they come back fine if not you have moved on.
Dave
To Dave …
And, if they come back later you'll have the leverage and perhaps the offer will go down. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and Boras only has one offer.