MET NOTES
PORT ST. LUCIE – The Mets have told other teams that their own payroll cannot increase except to add an ace, according to sources both inside and outside the organization.
In other words, they cannot expand the budget to acquire Jeff Fassero, but they can for Curt Schilling.
That explains the rational behind releasing Hideo Nomo and his $2.925 million salary before they could sign Orel Hershiser to a deal that could gross him $2.5 million, including incentives. If Nomo isn’t claimed, the Mets will owe him $731,262. Add that to the $2.5 million Hershiser could make and it almost exactly equals what Nomo could have made ($3.2 million) if he reached his incentives.
In order for GM Steve Phillips to deal for a lesser pitcher, he would have to free up money at least equivalent to that pitcher’s salary, which makes it more complicated, as evidenced by the Nomo situation.
“You always have a budget and it’s the GM’s job to put together a team within that framework,” Phillips said. “When it exceeds that – whether it’s small or large – you go to the owners and tell them what you’re thinking. … I’m a little further out [with the budget] than I’m supposed to be.”
The target of the budget was in the mid-$60 million range, but with permission from ownership Phillips has reached a figure closer to $68 million. For luxury tax purposes, the Mets are currently in the low $70 millions, fifth behind the Yankees, Dodgers, Orioles and Braves. The top five have to pay taxes, which are distributed to small-market clubs.
As for a possible deal before opening day, Phillips said, “I’m not all that hopeful.”
*
The Mets placed RHP Greg McMichael (sore right shoulder) on the 15-day disabled list. He is due to come off April 11. That means Derek Wallace, who cannot be optioned to the minors, has a chance to make the team out of spring training. Mets also placed OF Jay Payton and RHP Jeff Tam on the DL … Paul Wilson will undergo reconstructive surgery on his right elbow Wednesday. Dr. James Andrews will perform the surgery … Bobby Bonilla (right knee) led off the first eight innings of a Triple-A game and went 3-for-8 with a homer … Nomo’s agent Don Nomura picked up Nomo’s gear early yesterday morning.
*
The Mets and Cardinals called off their 6-6 tie after 11 innings. Bobby Jones looked exceptional through his first five innings, then gave up three runs in the sixth. He said he wasn’t tired, and is ready to start the season. He has one exhibition start to go … There were 6,320 fans at the game, the first sellout in Port St. Lucie in two years. Most of them were there to see Mark McGwire. He didn’t hit a home run, but Mike Piazza did, his second.
