AmazinMet1969's Blog

When a man is hired to perform a job, he must feel support and confidence from the highest level of management.  New York Mets Chief Operating Officer (COO),  Jeff Wilpon, has never been enamored with Willie, and subsequently wanted him out after the collapse of 2007 when the Mets lost a seven game lead with seventeen to play, as they finished the campaign 5-12.

Willie Randolph was undermined by Vice President of Development Tony Bernazard.  Reporters that I respect have concluded that Bernazard was always in the clubhouse cultivating his relationships with many of the players, especially the Latin players.  Willie was uncomfortable with his continuous presence and made this known to Omar and Tony,  himself. 

During Omar's press conference on Tuesday afternoon in Anaheim, he indicated that "sources" reported that coaches Rick Peterson and Tom Nieto, as well as Willie, may not survive this past weekend.  If this was discussed in high level meetings, who was the "leak?"  Could it be the aforemention individual with these wonderful relationships?  The same person who preferred Manny Acta as manager, instead of Willie Randolph in 2005. 

It is time for Omar to evaluate his staff.   There is certainly enough blame to go around for this underachieving baseball team that dates back over one calendar year.  Equal fault should fall with all areas of the organization including ownership, the general manager, the manager and the players.

If the Mets do not make the playoffs in 2008,  the Wilpons should again start anew, like they did in 2005 when they hired Omar Minaya.  Omar then subsequently hired Willie Randolph.

Willie was part of the equation,  but not the sum of the disappointing parts.  Maybe the collapse and the lackluster play through the first 69 games (34-35) were justification to fire the manager.  What we should all know is that the support system was not there for Willie Randolph.  The Wilpons reluctantly gave Willie a contract extension after 2006 when the Mets lost in Game 7 of the National League Championship Series.  They extended the contract through 2009 and he will still receive $3.4 Million.

The nature and circumstances of the firing were suspect.  This firing has the imprints of Jeff Wilpon all over it.  Omar insists he made the decision himself.  Omar,  you do not even know what members of your staff are doing.

Good Luck to Willie Randolph.  Best Wishes in the future.  Hopefully,  you will receive support from your ownership group in your next job and not have to worry about some guy undermining your leadership and authority.