Good ol' Gary Sheffield

I had been waiting all season for the REAL Gary Sheffield to stand up and he finally did. Gary said today that he needed to sit out yesterday's game because he was "thrown off" after discovering he had been put on waivers, claimed by another team and then pulled back by the Mets. The latter means Sheff cannot be traded for the rest of the season. So he takes himself out of the lineup and leaves the stadium following last night's game without talking to reporters. Come on' that's Gary Sheffield at his best...trying to play the media and fans! He was at it today when he explained that he has to live with what "they" (the Mets) decide and will play hard for his team. He added that he had a right to feel the way he felt and never asked for a contract extension. Really?!? Picture a calm, collected Gary asking Jerry Manuel in a business like fashion about his future status with the team. I am not saying Sheffield is rude and crude; in fact, he has been a total gentleman and kind when I have asked for an interview or talked to him this season. All I am saying is, he was probably more like, if you aren't going to keep me then let me play somewhere else or show me the money!

I don't blame him. Sheff is 40 years old and in his 22nd season with the league. His journey is quickly coming to an end and he wants to take advantage. Rumors are that the Giants wanted him. If that's true then he had the chance of getting on a contending team; the Mets also had a chance to get something out of it. It doesn't surprise me on all accounts but at least some are learning from their actions.

The Mets have placed Billy Wagner on waivers and the Red Sox have claimed him. The Mets have until Tuesday to trade him and get something in return, release him or keep him. The Mets will more than likely trade him, a good decision because Billy is owed $8 million next season and wants to be a closer not just a regular old reliever. We have KRod--case closed. I think Sheff will continue to play his little violin, but I hope he just plays baseball and has one year without any drama.