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

[smg58]

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]

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

[Guest cleonjones11]

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

[Guest Johnny Dickshot]

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."

[Guest Edgy DC]

Flushing always needed a zoo.

[MFS62]

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

Later

[Guest ScarletKnight41]

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.

[Guest Edgy DC]

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

[Centerfield]

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]

="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 Jim Caple: 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 Omar not done making big moves OlerudOwned Dec 09 2005 02:43 PM metirish wrote: Omar not done making big moves 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: Javy Vazquez dealt to White Sox 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.

[Guest Rotblatt]

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]

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]

Maybe she does deserve some extra $$$ from them. Shit, I'd buy that issue. I love the articles.

[Valadius]

The immortal Shel Silverstein used to write poems for Playboy.

[Guest abogdan]

Kris Benson to be interviewed by Mike and the Mad Dog at 4 today on the FAN. Supposedly, Benson requested the interview.

[Guest Johnny Dickshot]

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]

LOL

[Guest Edgy DC]

"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]

Not for nothing I hope Benson is not traded, I like the guy and hope he stays.

[MFS62]

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

[Guest Yancy Street Gang]

Think of what it does to Jay's mind.

[Guest abogdan]

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]

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]

I was at that Washington game... the birth of the Jake-Monster.

[Guest OlerudOwned]

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]

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.

[Guest OlerudOwned]

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

[Guest OlerudOwned]

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.

[Guest cooby]

metirish wrote: Anna will love Kansas..... .

*chortle*

[Elster88]

If this deal is for real, then we must be going after a top of the line starter.

Right?

*gulp*