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Benson Trade Rumor Thread (Julio? Vazquez? Pudge?)

GYC Dec 01 2005 06:12 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Dec 02 2005 03:29 PM

http://www.nypost.com/sports/mets/58699.htm METS COULD DEAL BENSON FOR O'S JULIO By KEVIN KERNAN PHOTO KRIS BENSON 10-8, 4.13 in 2005. Photo: Jeff Zelevansky Email Archives Print Reprint December 1, 2005 -- EXCLUSIVE Season tickets are on sale, and so is one Mets pitcher. The Mets are moving toward dealing starter Kris Benson to the Orioles for reliever Jorge Julio, sources have told The Post. It is a trade that makes sense for both teams and could be consummated at the winter meetings, which begin next week in Dallas. With the improvement of Aaron Heilman, the Mets have a surplus of starting pitchers and have been looking to deal Benson. Omar Minaya is reshaping the Mets, and Benson is not a pitcher Minaya acquired. "It's not done yet but it could be finalized at the meetings," a source said last night. A second source confirmed the two sides are in "concrete" talks to finalize the trade. The Orioles need pitching, especially a veteran starter, and Benson, who turned 31 on Nov. 7, fits the bill. Benson came to the Mets in a trade with the Pirates on July 30, 2004. The Mets sent Ty Wigginton, Jose Bautista and Matt Peterson to the Pirates for Benson and Jeff Keppinger. Benson went 12-12 overall that season then became a free agent. He was re-signed by the Mets to a three-year deal worth $22.5 million. Benson was 10-8 last season with a 4.13 ERA. The Mets want Julio because they are rebuilding their bullpen. They've already gotten the biggest piece of the puzzle in place, free-agent closer Billy Wagner, who signed a four-year, $43 million deal this week. But the Mets need arms to get to Wagner. Julio is a hard thrower who can become a strong setup man. The 26-year-old struggled last season with a 3-5 mark and a 5.90 ERA. In each of the three previous seasons, Julio was a closer; he compiled 83 saves for the Orioles. His out pitch is a four-seam fastball that he fires in the 96-98 mph range. He also throws a slider. Julio gets himself in trouble when he tries to overthrow. As a result, he loses his release point and his control. He walked 39 batters in 2004 over 69 innings. Last season, he walked 24 batters over 71 2/3 innings. Benson is a solid starter but never has quite reached his potential. He was the overall No. 1 pick in the 1996 draft.

Edgy DC Dec 01 2005 08:02 AM

Not.

KC Dec 01 2005 08:03 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Dec 01 2005 08:05 AM

I don't care how hard he throws, trading away a starting pitcher for a set-up guy doesn't make too much sense to me no matter how much starting pitching you think you have. For the first time in what seems like quite awhile, The NYT's sports section had no Mets related article today. Maybe The Post HAS to have one or two.

TheOldMole Dec 01 2005 08:03 AM

ETs? Will they have to phone home for permission?

Edgy DC Dec 01 2005 08:16 AM Edited 2 time(s), most recently on Dec 01 2005 11:00 AM

They seemed to overpay when they sent Hundley for Benitez, and they did well. Maybe they think they can rob Baltimore again. I'm just so trade averse. I also think they'd do better to move a vet for some minor-league talent to throw the equilibrium back a little.

MFS62 Dec 01 2005 08:27 AM

I'm not sure. What does Jorge's wife look like? Later

Johnny Dickshot Dec 01 2005 08:46 AM

]It is a trade that makes sense for both teams Debateable. What's so special about Julio besides a few seasons as a default closer for a lousy team? Even in his good years he wasn;t much of a strikeout monster and last season his ERA was six. On edit: But for the fact they were 26-year-old O's closers, Benitez isn;t even a fair comparison to Julio.

Centerfield Dec 01 2005 09:01 AM

Um, no.

Yancy Street Gang Dec 01 2005 09:25 AM

Pass. If they're set on dealing Benson, they can get more back than a setup guy. Minaya may not have dealt for Benson, but Kris was re-signed on Omar's watch. So I don't know that I buy the "Omar Hates Kris" angle. If this wasn't from the New York Post I'd be a little more concerned that it might be real.

Rotblatt Dec 01 2005 09:27 AM

Julio made $2.5M last year--assuming we sign him for about the same, we'll save $5M on the deal, so this mostly looks like a salary dump. We should be able to do way better, though. On the other hand, if Peterson can straighten out Julio's mechanics, he might be pretty solid.

HappyRecap Dec 01 2005 09:33 AM

Would rather see them dump Trachsel. Like most of you, I agree that dumping a starter for a set-up guy is not a good move. If this doesn't pave the way for Heilmann to get into the rotation then it really is a dumb move.

Edgy DC Dec 01 2005 09:34 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Dec 01 2005 09:35 AM

The proliferation of the Banson Bunch tells me that the Mets didn't overpay Kris so much as reported. If everybody needs pitching as badly as they do every other off-season, Benson's likely worth more than that. Offer them Ishii, maybe. There are better ways to escort young starters into the rotation than dumping the veteran starters for less than their value.

Frayed Knot Dec 01 2005 09:34 AM

]With the improvement of Aaron Heilman, the Mets have a surplus of starting pitchers No they don't. No one gets through a season with only 5 starters and with Petit gone the most likely mid-season/injury replacement is gone. And if Heilman is now a starter (?) this doesn't really cover a hole so much as it just shuffles the deck chairs a bit.

HappyRecap Dec 01 2005 09:39 AM

Edgy, is Ishii still around? I thought they dumped him a week or so ago. But I agree, Benson is worth more than that.

Edgy DC Dec 01 2005 09:55 AM

They decined his option, still own his rights, according to reports.

smg58 Dec 01 2005 09:59 AM

It looks like something similar to Cameron for Nady (freeing salary to do something else, but not getting an equal player in return), except Nady has a bit more to recommend him. I'm not sure I'd want Julio blocking younger guys. I could almost see it for Steve Kilne, because we're thinner from the left side, but he's also coming off a bad year. And Benitez only had one year (his rookie year) like Julio's last season, so it's not a fair comparison.

Frayed Knot Dec 01 2005 10:03 AM

For all the talk about MPH readings (something fans get way too hung up over) Julio, over the last 3 years, doesn't have particularly good: - K-rates: 58 in 72 IPs, 70 in 69 IPs, 52 in 62 IPs - WHiP figures: 1.40, 1.42, 1.52 - or ERAs: 5.90, 4.57, 4.38 His best year seems to have been his first full one in '02 when he was ERA = 1.99, WHiP = 1.20 (I think this is when Francesa fell in love with him, he's been touting Julio ever since IIRC). This year coming up looks to be his 5th season meaning that he's arb eligible for his salary and would be under club control for the next 2 seasons. Between this one (if true) and the Cameron deal, Omar has yet to impress me with his ability to get much return for a couple of very usable spare parts.

DocTee Dec 01 2005 10:57 AM

Johnny Dickshot wrote: "But for the fact they were 26-year-old O's closers, Benitez isn;t even a fair comparison to Julio." NY Post wrote: "Julio gets himself in trouble when he tries to overthrow. As a result, he loses his release point and his control." Sounds eerily similar to me.

Rotblatt Dec 01 2005 11:09 AM

Yeah, I think I'm with you, FK. Although if we take the money we save from Benson & sign Burnett, I might change my mind. Even if we don't sign a free agent SP, we'd still have: Petey, Glavine, Seo, Trachsel, Zambrano, with Heilman as an emergency starter. That's not a bad rotation. If Glavine repeats and Seo pitches half as well as he did last year, we'll be in good shape--I think Zambrano & Trachs are likely to give us league average performances this year. Our pen (assuming this trade happens) would probably be: Wagner, Heilman, Julio, Padilla, Bell, Perisho, Ring Short on LOOGY's (Perisho sucks), but not bad. Right now, all that's left via free agency are Ricardo Rincon (short 36-year old with pretty good splits) & Chris Hammond (good 40-year old who can be left in against righties--had a groin injury at the end of the season, although I don't know how severe). Either one of them would probably be decent pickups but competition might get fierce. Given that Heilman held lefties to a .208 BA last year, I wouldn't mind giving one of our youngsters like Ring or Hamulack a shot as low-leverage LOOGYs. To add a little depth, I'd like to see us sign someone like Armas Jr.--and maybe Dotel, too--to stash at AAA.

Willets Point Dec 01 2005 11:32 AM

Bummer, I was just starting to like Benson. Besides that would leave the Mets with an absence of pornstar wives.

Centerfield Dec 01 2005 11:36 AM

By the way, I just want to point out that the title of the thread makes it seem the deal is far more likely than the headline of the article. And the headline of the article probably makes the deal seem more likely than it really is.

seawolf17 Dec 01 2005 11:40 AM

You want another Benitez-Julio parallel? New York Mets traded Todd Hundley and Arnold Gooch to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Roger Cedeño and Charles Johnson on December 1, 1998. New York Mets traded Charles Johnson to the Baltimore Orioles for Armando Benitez on December 1, 1998. That would be freaky if this happened today.

Willets Point Dec 01 2005 11:47 AM

Especially if the Mets ended up with Roger Cedeno.

heep Dec 01 2005 12:37 PM

I think Omar an Co. feel Benson is not worth his contract, and will always be an average pitcher. The bottom line is he is overpaid. If dumping the salary affords them the opportunity to go after another 8 million/year pitcher, i.e. Zito, then I say go for it Omar. But we could do a little better than Julio. And on the overpaid note, I think if Hernandez and/or Molina deem Omar's 3 years at 24 million offer unacceptable as I read Nero state in a paper today, they too will be overpaid. Forget them. 8 million is a solid, sound offer. I'd be happy with Toby Hall and Castro. Plus we would not be relinquishing a draft pick.

Elster88 Dec 01 2005 12:45 PM

Does anyone think this is an absolutely terrible trade? Like there is absolutely nothing good about it. Trading a decent starter for a piddling middle reliever? Give me a fucking break. If he really wants to get rid of Benson, wait until mid season when Boston or a team 5 games out of the wildcard is crying for pitching help, and get three prospects back. I guess the only possiblility that makes sense is that we are trading him and then using that saved money to go after someone else. But that seems pretty far-fetched and difficult considering the status quo isn't so bad. If Omar does this trade, I will start to wonder if that silly notion that he only wants Hispanic players might not be so silly after all.

abogdan Dec 01 2005 12:56 PM

Yeah, this trade sucks. Trading a perfectly acceptable average starting pitcher for a crappy middle reliever makes no sense. I can somewhat understand trading a starter since the Mets do have a bit of a surplus, but to do it for a reliever who had one good year four seasons ago makes no sense.

duan Dec 01 2005 12:59 PM

em, there's a LOAD of stuff to worry about here ... For a start in ANYONE thinks Benson is overpaid all they have to do is look at the other contracts dished out last year and Esteban Loaiza this year already. Secondly Jorge Julio's been postively mediocre except for ONE year. ONE FREAKIN' YEAR. So you're giving up a decent 3/4 starter (not great, I'm not suggesting that for a minute) for a guy who's likely to be the 5/6th man in the pen? fookin' stoopid that'd be.

Frayed Knot Dec 01 2005 01:00 PM

]I think Omar an Co. feel Benson is not worth his contract, and will always be an average pitcher. ... The bottom line is he is overpaid. Compared to what? Have you checked out what Estaban Loaizia just got? 7-ish per year is the going rate for decent/not great pitchers these days. Dickshot tracked "The Benson Bunch" all season. 'TBB' were the group of FA pitchers who signed contracts last year that were similar in length & dollars to what we inked Benson for [Lowe, Leiber, Ortiz, etc]. Krissy held up very well at or near the top of that group all year - even as he faded a bit at the end. If he were banished it would likely take about the same amount of money to replace his production. Zito is making similar money to Benson now only because he's on the last year of a deal signed when he was a young player w/no leverage. Plus, once you add in the "price" in players it would take to pry him out of Beane grasp, he's not going to be cheaper than Benson at all - and he'd only be here for a single season before he'd be sure to make considerably more. "Dumping" Benson for the $$ savings would make more sense if he were out of position (Cameron) or woefully under-earning his price (Matsui) but I'd argue he isn't either. And the $3-$4 mil savings over each of the next 2 years (the diff between Benson & Julio) isn't going to make that big a dent in paying for a FA like Burnett which could reach $12/per x 5 years.

Rotblatt Dec 01 2005 01:01 PM

I wonder if there's a piece missing here in this proposed trade--like maybe we get a prospect back. I would think that Penn & probably Markakis (OF with some nice numbers who's rocking the AFL right now, IIRC) would be off-limits, but maybe Adam Loewen (lefty power pitcher with control problems) or Val Majewski (lefty OF recovering from a torn labrum--should be ready by Spring) . . . Or maybe those guys are all too good, but you'd think we'd be able to pry SOMEONE away from Baltimore in exchange for a decent pitcher . . .

metirish Dec 01 2005 01:07 PM

I hate this trade idea for most of the reasons given in this thread, not that it means a whole lot but Benson seems to like being a Mets a lot.

Frayed Knot Dec 01 2005 01:14 PM

]not that it means a whole lot but Benson seems to like being a Mets a lot. Fans probably put too much stock in this sort of thing but I do believe it's got to hurt a team in the long run if they develop a trend where they romance and sign players to long-term contracts only to reverse their thinking just a year into the deal. Seems to me that word will get around the player grapevine that these people (front office) aren't to be taken at their word. FWIW; Buster Olney - on FAN at lunchtime - doesn't put much stock in this rumor.

Elster88 Dec 01 2005 01:17 PM

If Buster's right, then you gotta love the paper saying it's close to being done. Damn, those reporters are seriously terrified about losing their careers and reputations. I seriously doubt Omar is that dumb to consider such a trade. We'll see.

Elster88 Dec 01 2005 01:35 PM

An excellent point from Buster: ]And while Benson is 31 years old, Pedro Martinez is 34, Steve Trachsel is 35, and Tom Glavine is 39. I'd keep Benson. He's never reached the potential that others saw in him, but when healthy, he's decent.

Nymr83 Dec 01 2005 03:54 PM

duan wrote: Secondly Jorge Julio's been postively mediocre except for ONE year. ONE FREAKIN' YEAR. So you're giving up a decent 3/4 starter (not great, I'm not suggesting that for a minute) for a guy who's likely to be the 5/6th man in the pen? fookin' stoopid that'd be. Kris Benson has never been better than mediocre either. the deal is dumb because a mediocre starter has greater value than a mediocre reliever.

Elster88 Dec 01 2005 04:02 PM

I think everyone here agrees with you, Nymr.

Nymr83 Dec 01 2005 04:17 PM

Elster88 wrote: I think everyone here agrees with you, Nymr. that would be a first i believe. would anyone like to come out in favor of this trade?

Yancy Street Gang Dec 01 2005 04:18 PM

I guess the Baltimore players would be in favor. They could try to entice Kris to cheat on his wife.

Edgy DC Dec 01 2005 04:26 PM

"Benson for Julio is close to dumb"

Rotblatt Dec 02 2005 09:59 AM

So most papers have this deal as dead, although the Post says that it was actually Julio plus an unnamed prospect. A couple say that the deal was ready to go, then after hearing about it, other GM's said they would give up more for Benson, so Minaya yanked it back. Some possibilities mentioned: Vazquez for Benson (love it) Pudge for Benson (meh. .290 OBP last year) Julio + prospect for Benson (maybe)

sharpie Dec 02 2005 10:04 AM

I could live with any of the possibilities that Rotblatt just mentioned. Yes, Pudge had a .290 OBP last year, but it was .383 the year before and .343 for his career. He's worth Kris Benson. As to the third one, depends on the prospect.

OlerudOwned Dec 02 2005 10:05 AM

Benson for Vazquez would be be nice. However, it's more likely to be something like Benson and Bannister for Vazquez (the rumor thrown out when Vaz first filed his demand). The question is, do you think Bannister is worth the difference in talent between the 2 pitchers, while keeping in mind we gave up Petit already and lost our 1st pick to the Phillies. I wouldnt mind the deal.

Rotblatt Dec 02 2005 10:27 AM

OlerudOwned wrote: Benson for Vazquez would be be nice. However, it's more likely to be something like Benson and Bannister for Vazquez (the rumor thrown out when Vaz first filed his demand). The question is, do you think Bannister is worth the difference in talent between the 2 pitchers, while keeping in mind we gave up Petit already and lost our 1st pick to the Phillies. I wouldnt mind the deal. Yup. I still like that deal. Vazquez & younger and has more upside and isn't that much more expensive, since the Yankees are (still) paying a lot of his contract.

Centerfield Dec 02 2005 11:37 AM

The News says this deal is not likely: Although there were preliminary conversations between the Mets and Orioles about a deal that would send Benson to Baltimore for reliever Jorge Julio, it now appears several other teams could offer a more attractive package in exchange for the Mets righthander, and Minaya is expected to gauge his best move next week.

Elster88 Dec 02 2005 11:45 AM

I'm still missing something. Why is there a big push to trade Benson?

Centerfield Dec 02 2005 11:47 AM

According to the article, to clear salary for Manny.

Nymr83 Dec 02 2005 02:24 PM

oh...in that case...BOOOOOO

Rotblatt Dec 02 2005 03:03 PM

Rosenthal from Fox: ]The Mets, meanwhile, won't trade right-hander Kris Benson to the Orioles unless they receive both reliever Jorge Julio and a mid-level prospect in return. ... Good. That makes a lot more sense to me. If we're getting back a decent OF or LHSP prospect, I'd be okay with the deal. http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/5132718

Elster88 Dec 02 2005 03:05 PM

A mid-level prospect does not make the deal much tastier, IMHO.

Yancy Street Gang Dec 02 2005 03:29 PM

Elster88 wrote: A mid-level prospect does not make the deal much tastier, IMHO. I agree. A mid-level prospect will be great for the Norfolk Tides, but probably won't do a whole lot for the New York Mets.

Zvon Dec 02 2005 10:22 PM

Benson,...to clear salary? Benson: 2005 Salary: $5,333,333 Trachsel: 2005 Salary: $6,782,500 Im not sure how that stands for 2006 or complete contract wise but Id move Trashy first. I like Trachsel, he's a good vet, but Im hopin to see good things from Benson the next few years.

Edgy DC Dec 02 2005 10:33 PM

Keep in mind, Trax shops at the 5 & 10.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2005 09:22 AM

Benson is owed $14+ over the next 2 years. Trachsel - because he hardly pitched at all in '05 - didn't make any of his contract incentives and so was renewed at a very low club option of $2.5mil for '06. I think there are incentives that could boost that higher but, if money saving is a goal, Benson is clearly the more attractive to dump right now. And, yeah, Trax has full veto power over any potential move. Vazquez is owed around $10mil or so for each of the next 2 seasons. Now the Yanx did pick up some of that when they dealt him to Arizona but I'm not sure if there's a specific schedule to how much they're paying ($xmil per year for instance) or whether they just cut the D'Backs a big fat lump sum check at the time of the trade. If it's the latter, whoever gets Vazquez would have to work out a new agreement with the Snakes if they want any kind of payroll relief. on edit: Since I just became Shane Spencer I think I'm going to start drinking now despite it being only 9:30 in the morning.

Rockin' Doc Dec 03 2005 10:46 AM

Frayed Knot - "Since I just became Shane Spencer I think I'm going to start drinking now despite it being only 9:30 in the morning." Just be careful whre you decide to go the bathroom and try to avoid Pizza delivery guys whenever possible.

GYC Dec 03 2005 11:58 AM

[URL=http://rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=MLB&leaguenum=&id=6167]http://rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/p...guenum=&id=6167[/URL] ]Kris Benson - Starting Pitcher The Giants and Royals are believed to have joined the Orioles in trade talks with the Mets regarding right-hander Kris Benson. The Jorge Julio deal is clearly on the backburner now, as the Mets have learned they can get more in return for Benson. Dec. 3 - 4:48 am et Source: New York Daily News

abogdan Dec 03 2005 12:32 PM

]Why is there a big push to trade Benson? Because the Mets have what appears to be a surplus of back of the rotation starters, and based on the Loaiza signing, Benson might actually be undervalued in today's market, especially considering the lack of quality free agent starters out there. Plus, the Mets are willing to take on "worse" contracts, like Vazquez's, in exchange as long as they are getting a potential upgrade talent-wise. I'd move Benson for Vazquez in a second. Expecting Benson to develop into anything more than he is now, an average starter, at this point in his career is foolhardy. I've always thought Vazquez would be perfectly suited for pitching half of his games at Shea. His problem the past two years has been home runs. Over his last four years in Montreal, after he started pitching 200 IP a year regularly, he averaged just over 1 HR/9 IP. With the Yankees and Arizona, he averaged nearly half a HR more per game. Moving to Shea should cut down on those numbers.[/url]

Johnny Dickshot Dec 03 2005 12:52 PM

OTOH, one of Benson's "strengths" is preventing the HR, or at least he 's not especially vulnerable to them, and when he's right (obviously not long enough to everyone's satisfaction) we've seen he can be excellent. I'd prolly do Vasquez for Benson too but it's not a slam dunk.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2005 01:56 PM

IP H ER HR BB K ERA WHiP BENSON 375 373 176 39 110 229 4.23 1.29 VAZQUEZ 414 418 214 68 106 342 4.66 1.27 . Those are their stats for the last 2 seasons. Vazquez has the better K/BB numbers, but that's not merely more HRs it's nearly double the amount in only 10% more IPs. Yeah it's NYY stadium and Phoenix vs Pitts & Shea but even League & Park adjusted ERAs show Benson at 97 & 101 (essentially average) and Vazquez somewhat lower at 92 & 99 Both are signed for the next 2 years, but considering that money-wise Vaz is going for nearly 50% more I wouldn't think it's really an even swap unless contract relief or extra player considerations are thrown in. It's not a trade I'd do just for the sake of doing something but wouldn't be adverse to it with a bit more creativity, particularly since the Snakes "have to" move their guy while we don't. Some Met fans are going to play up the "he's proven he can't play in NYC" angle but that crap doesn't scare me. He had a decent 1st half w/the Yanx and a rotten 2nd half which proves ... not a whole lot. Vazquez is a year and a half younger. (29.5 vs 31) His name will also net you a helluva lot more points in SCRABBLE although you'll need to burn one of the blanks.

MFS62 Dec 03 2005 02:52 PM

Knot, how do those numbers look if you use Valasquez' last two National League years and forget his Yankee/AL year? Later

Edgy DC Dec 03 2005 03:58 PM

I've got no great blinders on when it comes to Benson, and was against his acquisition before and during it's occurrance. That said, I can't repeat enough that seeing someone with ERAs right around the league average should not lead anyone to conclude that they have an average pitcher.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2005 05:08 PM

MFS62 wrote: Knot, how do those numbers look if you use Valasquez' last two National League years and forget his Yankee/AL year? Some of his Montreal years were better for sure -- I just used the stats from '04 & '05 because I figured the most recent were the most relevant. Also, Benson was a college selection so he started later and then missed several years to injury. Vazquez came out of High School and, no question, was the better young player but the comparisons for those early years simply don't match up and I'm not so sure they tell us a whole lot about now. I also don't see much point in "taking out" Vazquez's NYY year. Yeah it may have been his worst but those normalized ERA figures (92 & 99 in his case; 100 = league avg) adjust for league, year, and park factors and show that he was giving up runs at a higher rate than Benson even when those differences are accounted for.

smg58 Dec 03 2005 11:50 PM

Vazquez did have a great 03 season (231 IP, 3.24 ERA, 241 K), but it looks like the back-to-back seasons of 230+ IP in 02 and 03 took a toll. His K/BB ratio recovered last year, but he still got hit hard. I don't really know what to expect from him at this point, which would limit what I'd be willing to deal.

Valadius Dec 04 2005 06:12 PM

Had we not traded Petit, I would have been open to a Benson trade. But now, forget it.

cleonjones11 Dec 05 2005 12:33 AM What did Benson do?

Man..talk about souring on someone. Did he or his wife pull a Steve Phillips with the help?

Johnny Dickshot Dec 05 2005 07:19 AM

Amazin's hurler's wife pitches fit BY ADAM RUBIN DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER Mets pitcher Kris Benson's hottie wife, Anna, is livid at team officials, alleging that a potential Playboy spread caused team brass to start trade talk. The bombshell wife of Mets pitcher Kris Benson blew up at the Amazin's yesterday for trying to trade her husband - and charged her negotiations to pose nude for Playboy were to blame. Sexy Anna Benson insisted she's not baring it all anytime soon and ripped the Mets for shopping her hubby just a year after signing him to a four-year deal. "We would never, ever have signed with New York if they had said they were going to trade us," said Anna Benson, 29. "I was Miss [Politically Correct] for the Mets the entire time I was there. "I have no deal with Playboy," she said, adding that talks crumbled last month over money. The pinup model also blasted the team for signing Carlos Delgado, who she suggested is unpatriotic because he has, in the past, refused to stand for the playing of "God Bless America." "How are they going to sit there and say it's so controversial when they sign someone like Delgado, who turns his back on our flag?" Anna Benson said. Still, posing in her birthday suit would be as American as apple pie, said Benson, who once threatened to sleep with the entire Mets team if she caught her husband cheating. "Playboy is all-American. Everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Cindy Crawford has posed," fumed Benson, who once posed topless for Penthouse. "They didn't turn their back on the flag." Mets brass have acknowledged trying to move Kris Benson and his $7.5 million salary, and insiders say management is uncomfortable with the prospect of Anna Benson posing nude for Playboy. But a team spokesman shot down the trade rumors and insisted there would be no ruffled feathers in Flushing over a Playboy pictorial. "We do not make moves based on anything the players' wives do," said Mets spokesman Jay Horwitz. "We know she's trying to build a career for herself and we wish her well." Kris Benson, 31, had a so-so first full season with the Amazin's, going 10-8 with a 4.13 earned run average. But Anna Benson angrily called the Mets out for saying they planned to build the team around him when they inked the free agent to a deal last year. "They wanted [veteran pitcher] Tommy [Glavine] to school him, and then they turn around and trade us?" she asked. "The whole thing is upsetting to everybody." The hot-under-the-collar hottie says she's also angry because the couple came to New York, in part, to help 9/11 charities. Some $1 million in Kris Benson's contract is earmarked for charitable donations. "We wanted to help the city because of 9/11," Anna Benson said. "We specifically did it for New York, and then they turn around and trade us? I just don't understand."

Edgy DC Dec 05 2005 07:49 AM

Flushing always needed a zoo.

MFS62 Dec 05 2005 07:53 AM

There is one, a kiddie zoo, in Flushing Meadow Park. (Where the World's Fair was held) Later

ScarletKnight41 Dec 05 2005 08:17 AM

I have always thought that the Mets' history of trading players who signed as free agents early into their contracts would make it harder to sign new free agents down the line. Unless, like Billy Wagner, they insist on no-trade clauses.

Edgy DC Dec 05 2005 08:26 AM

The Flushing Kiddie Zoo would make a cruel name for an exposé book.

Centerfield Dec 05 2005 10:09 AM

And, of course, by blasting Delgado, Anna makes it that much more likely that Kris will be traded... On Edit: Any guesses on how Kris is reacting right now? Does he agree with Anna? Does he wish she would shut up? Does he agree with her but wish she would stop pissing off teammates as big as Carlos Delgado?

Elster88 Dec 05 2005 10:28 AM

="Centerfield"]And, of course, by blasting Delgado, Anna makes it that much more likely that Kris will be traded... ] silver made a similar note in the bootleg Benson thread. You both are trying to find logical and rational reasoning in the workings of an illogical and irrational mind. I'm about 100% sure she is making this fuss to get more publicity for herself. Rotblatt Dec 05 2005 10:47 AM Here's my take on Vazquez (from a previous thread): ]Okay, so it looks like Vazquez is owed $23M over the next two years, BUT the Yankees are paying $6M of it. So basically, he'd be getting $8.5M per year. Benson is getting $7.5M per year and has $7.5M option for 2008 with a $.5M buyout. Vazquez is two years younger. Neither have been particularly good lately but Vazquez would seem to have a much higher ceiling, having posted ERA+s of 135 & 154. Benson has never broke 120. Vazquez is much more of a strikeout pitcher and has better control. The only real advantage that Benson has is HR/9--0.98 to 1.22--and Vazquez should be able to get away with being a fly ball pitcher at Shea. Vazquez has also been far more durable than Benson. If we can get Vazquez for Benson & Bannister, I'd do that in a heartbeat. seawolf17 Dec 05 2005 10:52 AM Elster88 wrote: I'm about 100% sure she is making this fuss to get more publicity for herself. And to get 100% more money from Playboy, because Playboy execs know that there are thousands of Daily News readers today who are wondering when that issue goes on sale. Elster88 Dec 05 2005 10:57 AM Maybe she does deserve some extra $$$ from them. Shit, I'd buy that issue. I love the articles. Valadius Dec 05 2005 10:59 AM The immortal Shel Silverstein used to write poems for Playboy. abogdan Dec 06 2005 02:28 PM Kris Benson to be interviewed by Mike and the Mad Dog at 4 today on the FAN. Supposedly, Benson requested the interview. Johnny Dickshot Dec 06 2005 02:35 PM 3-2 Favorite: "My wife was misquoted/taken out of context/etc. We're happy here in NY and hope we stay but we understand this is a business and can only focus on that which we can control and not worry about the other stuff." 16-1 Longshot: "My ex-wife has gone to rehab." Elster88 Dec 06 2005 02:36 PM LOL Edgy DC Dec 06 2005 02:51 PM "My wife is impulsive and likes to speak her mind. And, in the business she's in, the media are doing well giving her ample opportunity and more than enough rope. We both have the utmost respect for Mets management. The crux of her position, however is true. We signed to play with this organizaiton and for this city and we hope not to be moved. I've spoken to Jay Horwitz, and he --- you should know this, he has a great relationship with Anna --- he's been laughing about it all morning. Much too much has been made of this, and I'm hoping we can put it to bed." Ten clams on that. metirish Dec 06 2005 02:58 PM Not for nothing I hope Benson is not traded, I like the guy and hope he stays. MFS62 Dec 06 2005 03:09 PM Edgy DC wrote: I've spoken to Jay Horwitz, and he --- you should know this, he has a great relationship with Anna --- he's been laughing about it all morning. Much too much has been made of this, and I'm hoping we can put it to bed." The thoughts about Anna and the words "Jay Horwitz" and "bed" in the same paragraph boggle my mind. Later Yancy Street Gang Dec 06 2005 03:15 PM Think of what it does to Jay's mind. abogdan Dec 06 2005 04:19 PM Mike and the Dog interview recap: Benson's told Omar he wants to stay with the Mets. Frustrated that he's in trade rumors, but understands it's part of the game. No no-trade clause in his contract. Asked about Anna, reads a quote from Gammons saying the Mets want to get rid of Kris b/c of Playboy and Anna's radio show (she has a radio show?). Benson dismisses it as comment from anonymous GM, doesn't bother him. Says his agent talked to Jeff Wilpon, who supposedly told the agent that they have no problem w/Anna. Says everyone from the Mets denied to him that Anna would be the reason for any move. Asked about Anna's Delgado quote. Tries to explain it as Anna saying it doesn't make sense for it being OK for Delgado to express his political opinion, why can't I pose in Playboy. Double standard about expressive conduct. Says the paper spun it in the article as her having a problem with Delgado which wasn't the case. Says him and Anna have a great relationship w/the Mets. Asked why Benson hasn't had a great season yet in his career. Kris says he thinks it will happen this year with the team the Mets have put together. Blames Washington game on his ERA being worse than it should be, a bad 2/3 IP. Benson wants to play in NYC. Nothing he could do about going to KC or Tampa, but wants to stay here. Impression he got from Omar - listens to proposals, has had interest from teams in Kris and he has to listen to those offers. Elster88 Dec 06 2005 04:21 PM abogdan wrote: Asked about Anna, reads a quote from Gammons saying the Mets want to get rid of Kris b/c of Playboy and Anna's radio show (she has a radio show?). Benson dismisses it as comment from anonymous GM, doesn't bother him. Those anonymous sources sure can lead to trouble, can't they, Mr. Healey? abogdan wrote: Says everyone from the Mets denied to him that Anna would be the reason for any move. I believe this. SC = zero abogdan wrote: Asked about Anna's Delgado quote. Tries to explain it as Anna saying it doesn't make sense for it being OK for Delgado to express his political opinion, why can't I pose in Playboy. Double standard about expressive conduct. Says the paper spun it in the article as her having a problem with Delgado which wasn't the case. I poked some fun at Anna yesterday, much to the dismay of some of a couple other posters ;-) , but I can totally believe that the papers would spin something to drum up a controversey. ]Asked why Benson hasn't had a great season yet in his career. Kris says he thinks it will happen this year with the team the Mets have put together. Blames Washington game on his ERA being worse than it should be, a bad 2/3 IP. Thanks for leaving me in for 11 batters, Willie. Valadius Dec 06 2005 07:37 PM I was at that Washington game... the birth of the Jake-Monster. OlerudOwned Dec 06 2005 09:24 PM The new newest rumors http://www.metsblog.com/ ]According to ESPN’s Peter Gammons, the Mets are set to trade Benson to the Royals for Affeldt and RHP Mike MacDougal… metirish Dec 06 2005 09:29 PM Anna will love Kansas.....again I want Kris to stay, I mean if the Royals are taking all his contract then fine but I would rather have Benson than Zambrano if it'a about trading SP...which of course it's probably not...I hope. OlerudOwned Dec 06 2005 09:30 PM Affeldt is a 26 y.o. lefty who hasnt done much of anything in KC. He got moved from the rotation to bullpen and had a 5.26 ERA in 49.7 innings. 39 K, 29 BB. MacDougle was an All-Star closer in '03 before a bad 2nd half. Had a pretty bad '04 (EDIT: Actually, he had an injured '04. Only 11 IP), but he rebounded for a strong season in '05. 3.33 ERA in 71 innings, 72 K and 24 walks. Plus, he has an awesome name. Robert Meiklejohn MacDougal OlerudOwned Dec 06 2005 09:41 PM More from Metsblog ]…Update…9:33 PM… …the royals are confirming that this deal is more or less done, but that it may be a prospect, and not macdougal… I'd rather it be MacDougle... Hey, maybe we'll get Huber back. cooby Dec 06 2005 09:57 PM metirish wrote: Anna will love Kansas..... . *chortle* Elster88 Dec 06 2005 10:33 PM If this deal is for real, then we must be going after a top of the line starter. Right? *gulp* Centerfield Dec 06 2005 10:54 PM Rumors from another board are that those pitchers may be part of a package for Zito. Let's hope. Johnny Dickshot Dec 06 2005 10:57 PM Is it true... or is the Internet Fanboy Press Association? Valadius Dec 07 2005 12:10 AM Heard from no one have we. Frayed Knot Dec 07 2005 12:16 AM Centerfield wrote: Rumors from another board are that those pitchers may be part of a package for Zito. Rumors no doubt started either from inside their own heads or relayed to them from household pets. Beenso Dec 07 2005 01:39 AM i wouldnt mind this trade if they get macdougle back. otherwise, keep benson. if they trade for vazquez im going to cry :( Rotblatt Dec 07 2005 10:24 AM We should be able to get more for Benson than MacDougal. I don't want Zito if we have to give up Milledge. Vazquez, on the other hand, I'm down with, although I'm starting to wonder if maybe the Yankees WON'T be paying part of his salary--that maybe Arizona gets to pocket that cash. None of the rags mention that Vazquez is subsidized at all, which worries me. Centerfield Dec 07 2005 10:46 AM Rotty, I look forward to your analysis on Zito. MFS62 Dec 07 2005 11:09 AM metirish wrote: Anna will love Kansas..... I can't wait to see Anna on the cover of The Farmer's Almanac. Later heep Dec 07 2005 12:14 PM If the Mets are hesitant of giving up Milledge for Ramirez, they are not going to give him up for Zito. The more I read and hear from Minaya (i.e. interview with Mike and Dog) the more confident I am that he is going to hold onto Milledge. He appears to understand that you cannot have a conglomerate of high salary guys. Wright and Reyes are not going to make 320,000 for too much longer. That is why Milledge (as a young 5 dimensional player) is so valuable. Pitching, pitching, pitching. If Minaya can pull off a 3 team deal (Benson + Zambrano/Seo), and it appears it will be necessary to involve a 3rd team to acquire Zito, that would be a major plus. Pedro, Zito, Glavine, Trachsel, Seo/Bannister/Heilman. Better than last year. Johnny Dickshot Dec 07 2005 12:29 PM I sort of agree with you -- I think Omar will try to get through the winter with Milledge still in the org and tho everyone seems to think he's an automatic goner in any deal for another starting pitcher (if that's truly what he wants), seems to me Billy Beane might find a closer-to-the-show guy with good OBP & Power (Diaz) plenty useful in a deal, especially if you realize all he's really offering is one year of Barry Zito. seawolf17 Dec 07 2005 12:52 PM From [url=http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=caple/offbase/051207]Jim Caple[/url]: The Top 10 Things The Mets Have Done to Piss Off Anna Benson 10. With the loss of Mike Piazza to free agency and the trade of Mike Cameron, the Mets are getting rid of all the really cute teammates. 9. Kris' crude teammates keep inviting her to join them in the showers after a game. 8. The Mets stubbornly refuse to employ Abercrombie & Fitch catalogue models as their batboys. 7. For a photo spread in the team program, the Mets marketing department asked her to pose topless with a pants-less Mr. Met. 6. When they go to strip clubs, Kris' unpatriotic teammates refuse to stand for their lap dances. 5. Unpatriotic concession stands refuse to rename the fries "freedom fries." 4. General manager Omar Minaya asked, "If I said you have a great body, would you hold it against me?" 3. She's still upset about finding out they didn't sign with the New York team Rudy Giuliani roots for. 2. For the 19th consecutive season, the unpatriotic Mets didn't visit the president in the White House. And the No. 1 Thing The Mets Have Done To Piss Off Anna Benson ... 1. Shea Stadium still sucks. Edgy DC Dec 07 2005 12:59 PM He's reduced to Freedom Fries jokes? Yancy Street Gang Dec 07 2005 01:01 PM He should leave the jokes to Letterman. HahnSolo Dec 07 2005 01:24 PM You mean he was trying to be funny? Valadius Dec 07 2005 06:02 PM Barry Zito: Mets in the Hunt RotoWire.com Staff - RotoWire.com Wednesday, December 7, 2005 Update: The Mets are clearly in the hunt for Zito, with their possible trade of Kris Benson to the Royals being used to clear salary room, paving the way for a potential deal with the Athletics, the Bergen Record reports. Recommendation: According to a person close to Zito, whose contract expires at the end of 2005, he likes New York and would be open to signing a contract extension with the Mets, who would require a window to negotiate that, if a deal could be completed. The A's and Zito's agent Arn Tellem are believed to be open to allowing that window of negotiation but the bigger question is whether New York will surrender Lastings Milledge, the likely beginning asking price, for Zito. Elster88 Dec 07 2005 09:23 PM They have Benson's (Kristin) interview with M&MD on the FAN. He came off well, and got me excited talking about the Mets and next year. I hope he sticks around. I like him. metirish Dec 07 2005 11:49 PM Just heard it now Elster, and I second what you say. metirish Dec 08 2005 07:18 AM ] BY DAVID LENNON STAFF CORRESPONDENT DALLAS -- The Mets' whirlwind visit to these winter meetings had yet to land them Manny Ramirez or Barry Zito, but general manager Omar Minaya still worked feverishly to make a deal or two before heading back to New York today. Minaya's top priority was trading Kris Benson, and the Mets were moving closer to that goal yesterday with the Rangers after talks with the Royals broke down Tuesday night. A baseball official with knowledge of the discussions said the most recent proposal involved sending Benson to the Rangers for outfielder Laynce Nix and righthander Juan Dominguez. Late last night the Rangers traded Alfonso Soriano to the Nationals for Brad Wilkerson, giving them a surplus of outifelders. Texas is hungry for pitching, and the Mets are anxious to subtract one of their starters, particularly Benson, who is due $15 million over the next two seasons. Ideally, Minaya would like to clear Benson's salary in order to make other moves, with an eye toward acquiring the Athletics' Zito or the Diamondbacks' Javier Vazquez. Minaya talked with Oakland GM Billy Beane this week about Zito's availability, and was eager to make a deal. But the Mets apparently were discouraged by the asking price, and were left with the impression that Beane plans to wait before trading him, perhaps well into the season. That's not to say Zito won't remain on Minaya's radar, and it helps that the A's lefthander has told friends he would welcome a trade to New York, an encouraging sign should the Mets need to negotiate an extension before making the trade. As for Vazquez, the biggest obstacle is money, with two years and $24 million left on the contract he originally signed with the Yankees. Now that Minaya has spent his $30-million surplus on three players -- Carlos Delgado, Billy Wagner and Paul Lo Duca -- there is pressure to trim more payroll before he can add any more pieces. The easiest way to do that would be to trade Benson, or better still, Kaz Matsui, who is proving to be nearly impossible to move because of his $8-million salary this season. Minaya spent much of yesterday trying to find a taker for Matsui, but may be coming to the realization that the Mets could be stuck with him this year. Minaya is asked by reporters about Matsui's status on a daily basis here at the meetings, and either he plans on having Matsui in his Opening Day lineup, or, to say it nicely, he's bluffing other teams into believing that. "Matsui's going to be our second baseman," Minaya said. If only by default. The Mets are among the teams pursuing free agent Mark Grudzielanek, and the Red Sox dropped out of the bidding yesterday when they traded backup catcher Doug Mirabelli to the Padres for Mark Loretta. It's unclear if the Mets would sign another second baseman with Matsui on the roster, but that may convince him to drop his limited no-trade clause and embrace a change of scenery. His contract states that he can be traded to only three teams: the Yankees, Angels and Dodgers. "You know I'm fine with Matsui," manager Willie Randolph said. "He still needs to work very hard on his defense. But I'm not one of those guys saying that he can't play for me, or we need a second baseman. I haven't gone there with that because I still think he can play." Piazza, Hernandez gone. The Mets did not offer arbitration to any of their 11 free agents, including Mike Piazza and Roberto Hernandez. The Mets can't sign either of them before May 1, effectively ending their tenure with the Mets. Piazza's departure was expected but Hernandez's leaving was a bit of a surprise. Because of the escalating market for relief pitchers, they were unable to sign Hernandez by Wednesday's midnight deadline . . . Reliever Jeff Nelson, looking for a job at the meetings, talked with Minaya Tuesday and said he would consider a return to New York, only this time in Queens. Nelson, 39, was 1-3 with a 3.93 ERA for the Mariners last season. metirish Dec 08 2005 08:45 AM Ok I have never liked Jeff fucking Nelson, I hope he's not coming to Queens. Elster88 Dec 08 2005 08:49 AM Trading Benson and his 15 million over two years to bring Vazquez and his 24 million over two years doesn't make much sense to me. I thought someone posted numbers comparing the two and Vazquez was not appreciably better. ______________________ This post had the designation 104) Brian McRae Johnny Dickshot Dec 08 2005 09:08 AM I got no use for Jeff Nelson either. I wonder of some of 2003's releivers will ever get another chance -- Fortunato, Moreno, Yates. If not, perhaps these fellas wind up with Jim Duke in Baltimore. Rotblatt Dec 08 2005 10:46 AM One of the rags had a rumor of Benson to Texas for Lance Nix & Juan Dominguez. I liked the 25-year old Nix until I looked at his numbers--78 OPS+, strikes out a lot and doesn't walk much. He's youngish, has a tiny bit of pop and plays center field, though, so we could probably flip him for someone a little more interesting. Dominguez is intriguing--25 year old RHP from the DR who's both started & relieved (102 ERA+). He's got a reverse split against lefties, and can occasionally be dominating--he took a no-hitter against KC into the seventh in his fifth start last year. From what I can find online, he's got a good fastball (low to mid 90's) and a superb change, which helps explain his reverse split. He apparently lacks a third pitch, so he might be better suited to the pen, but he also allegedly gets a little over-emotional in tight spots. I have a feeling that's something Willie might actually be good at helping him with. Ricky P, too, now that I think about it. He has impressive minor league numbers, but he was oldish in every stop. Still, he seems like a legit prospect who could help us this year as a swing man. This sounds like the best deal I've heard so far. Elster88 Dec 08 2005 01:55 PM I believe Zito is not going anywhere, though my sources that Beane won't deal him are obviously the very shaky Internet and radio. Flipping Benson for a guy like Dominguez makes no sense, especially if the replacement starter is Vazquez. Valadius Dec 09 2005 12:52 PM Kris Benson: Trade Talks with Royals Stall RotoWire.com Staff - RotoWire.com Friday, December 9, 2005 Update: The Mets and Royals met again, but a deal featuring Benson and Kansas City's relievers doesn't appear to be going anywhere, the NY Daily News reports. Recommendation: The Mets originally wanted Mike MacDougal and Jeremy Affeldt, which the Royals turned down. It appears now that New York wants MacDougal while the Royals are pushing Affeldt. With trade talks with Texas also falling apart, Benson may be stuck in New York longer than expected as the Mets try and clear salary to go after Javier Vazquez. metirish Dec 09 2005 02:32 PM [url=http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/ny-spmets094545264dec09,0,5195884.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines]Omar not done making big moves[/url] OlerudOwned Dec 09 2005 02:43 PM metirish wrote: [url=http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/ny-spmets094545264dec09,0,5195884.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines]Omar not done making big moves[/url] Thats seems like the 5th time that same article has been published. We get it, sports journalists of America, Omar likes building the team. Elster88 Dec 09 2005 02:44 PM From this quote: "We put in so much work here," Minaya said, "over the next week or so, things will come out." the Newsday correspondent comes up with the headline: "Not Ready to Stop: Minaya hints about making more big moves after adding reserves Valentin and Franco." Newsday SUCKS!!! Zvon Dec 09 2005 08:33 PM I had to....lol. I wish i could credit the original cartoonist, but the info wasnt available. Found the cartoon on Google. The punch line is his, I just dressed it up. Yancy Street Gang Dec 09 2005 08:52 PM Kris has really let himself go over the winter. OlerudOwned Dec 10 2005 10:33 AM Yancy Street Gang wrote: Kris has really let himself go over the winter. Really, he has a chest to match Anna's. Johnny Dickshot Dec 13 2005 07:17 AM ANNA'S CALL TO METS: DON'T DEAL MY HUBBY By MICHAEL MORRISSEY With Kris Benson solidly on the trading block, his controversial wife phoned Mets COO Jeff Wilpon last week to address any misunderstandings after her recent incendiary comments. Additionally, Anna Benson made a personal plea to Wilpon to keep her husband in Flushing — and yesterday afternoon Benson reiterated his desire to stay a Met during an exclusive interview with The Post. Anna Benson's call occurred two days after GM Omar Minaya spoke with Benson about trade reports that have been swirling like a snow squall. "I understand the business and the rumors and Omar's desire to put together a winning team," Kris Benson told The Post by phone. "I hope I'm part of it. "They had told me I would be a part of a [contending] team [when he signed last November]. It's kind of frustrating to be so immediately put into trade talks a year-and-a-half later. "In Pittsburgh, I almost embraced the fact I could go to another team and start new. It's a little bit more frustrating when you enjoy where you're at." Arizona is "nearing conclusion" of a deal for righty Javier Vazquez, GM Josh Byrnes told The Post, and the Mets spoke to the Diamondbacks as recently as yesterday. Vazquez's arrival at Shea would probably mean Benson's imminent exit, but Minaya hadn't gone to his bosses about a deal as of early last night. St. Louis, Detroit and Washington also have been linked to Vazquez. So have the White Sox, but a Chicago-based source said they have more pressing needs. But every day a new rumor potentially impacts Benson, and reportedly team officials see his wife as a "distraction." Anna Benson recently defended her desire to pose for Playboy, dissed new slugger Carlos Delgado for not standing for "God Bless America" and complained about the Mets' peddling of Benson so soon after locking him up long-term. According to Benson, his wife was able to explain to Wilpon where the family was coming from, "Our desire to stay in New York — and if there's any possibility of staying, we definitely are all for it. The two of them just kind of worked it out," Benson said. Although Benson characterized the conversation as positive, Wilpon couldn't guarantee anything, saying "Omar's in charge [to] get his team together." During last week's winter meetings, Benson woke up early and checked out the latest trade speculation on the Internet. He admitted feeling "nervous," but that hasn't turned him sour. In fact, he's honoring his pledge to play the role of Santa Claus at the Mets' annual holiday party for children tomorrow afternoon at Shea. As part of his contract, the community-oriented Benson pledged $1 million in charitable donations. So for many reasons, he wants to stay here. Professionally, he's never been this excited about a season or been on a team this talented. But if his exit yields the Mets the final puzzle pieces to a championship, he said, "So be it." "It's not going to be a fun moment when — if — that becomes true," he admitted of a trade. Yancy Street Gang Dec 13 2005 07:20 AM I think that's the first time I've seen a photo of Anna where she looks more cute than slutty. Johnny Dickshot Dec 13 2005 07:24 AM That's why I included it. She's as cute as the puppy she's holding. Benson is playing Santa Claus. Maybe we'll look back at this winter and laud the motivational genius of Omar. Maybe we won't. seawolf17 Dec 14 2005 08:53 AM Looks like Vazquez isn't the answer either: [url=http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2258626]Javy Vazquez dealt to White Sox[/url] Elster88 Dec 14 2005 08:56 AM That's great news! To get rid of Benson to only fill his spot in the rotation with the more expensive Vazquez would've been the height of stupidity. sharpie Dec 14 2005 09:43 AM Good deal for the Chisox. A trade of former Yankees. smg58 Dec 14 2005 09:45 AM An interesting deal. While the notion of Javy as the fifth starter in the CWS rotation should make the rest of the AL uneasy, Vazquez has trouble giving up home runs in general and has struggled particularly against righties, and righty power hitters have a field day in the Sox park. The D-Backs get a good outfield prospect out of the deal, plus El Duque. The problem with Arizona is that they've manage to block all their best young talent with expensive, unmoveable contracts to veterans (Shawn Green until 2007??). It will be interesting to see how they clear up the logjam. Yancy Street Gang Dec 14 2005 10:02 PM Santa Claus and his trophy wife. Zvon Dec 14 2005 10:50 PM I know I joke about this situation, but if Anna's call to Omar plays a part in us keeping Benson I'll personally thank her( it may have the opposite effect). I'd also advise her to focus more on her career and less on his, publically speaking. But I really think Benson (healthy/for a full season) would be a fine pitcher for the Mets. He's so like Glavine that he has to be learning from the man. He's got the arm. I still hope he stays.