11-07-2002, 04:56 PM
ok, the Mets might still be in the hunt for Mazzone after all, and Glavine as well...
Quote:<font size="3">Mets talk to Glavine's agent</font>
ESPN.com news services
The New York Mets are apparently turning to one of their most bitter rivals to try and boost their own lineup.
According to a report in The New York Times on Thursday, the Mets have contacted Atlanta's Tom Glavine's agent and are also in the midst of asking the Braves for permission to speak to pitching coach Leo Mazzone.
The Mets were looking to replace pitching coach Charlie Hough with Dave Wallace, but Wallace told the Mets on Monday that he would stay on as the Dodgers' vice president for baseball operations.
With that, New York might turn to Mazzone, whose contract runs out on Dec. 31. According to the report, Mazzone might consider the Mets since they might offer a more lucrative deal.
But Braves general manager John Schuerholz said Wednesday that the team and Mazzone's place in the Atlanta organization would play a part in whether or not to grant permission. The Mets face a similar problem with Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti, who is still under contract. New York has not yet asked for permission, but Giants GM Brian Sabean told The Times on Wednesday that if they did "they would be denied permission."
Glavine, meanwhile, rejected Atlanta's one-year, $9 million offer, and can begin negotiating with other teams starting on Tuesday.
The Mets have at least two open spots on their starting rotation.