Listen(Friday, July 18): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports about Stephon Marbury and David Lee.

Listen(Friday, July 18): In the Marchand Report, Andrew Marchand updates Max Kellerman and Brian Kenny on the Knicks, Mets and Yankees trade possibilities.

An NBA executive tells 1050 that he expects the Knicks to eventually cut Stephon Marbury. The exec says that since this is the feeling around the NBA he doesnâ¬"t expect anyone to step up and trade for Marbury.

However, after Marbury is cut, he thinks there will be a lot of teams interested in Marbury. After being let go by the Knicks, Marbury figures to be extra motivated.

Though few of Marburyâ¬"s teams have won, he is still nearly a 20-point, 8-assist guy in his career. If he is willing to accept a reduced role --- a big if â¬" then he might be worth the chance.

Meanwhile, David Lee is still on the trading block. His agent, Marc Bartelstein, told 1050, he thinks Lee could still be dealt this summer.

Bartelstein refused to say exactly what Lee would want in a new contract, if he is not dealt. But the NBA exec says Lee will want at least a three-year deal, which Donnie Walsh seems disinclined to do.

Walsh is aiming toward the Summer of LeBron in 2010. To get under the cap, Walsh needs to subtract money for that year, not add.

This means that if Lee stays, he very well could be a restricted free agent next season.

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It is not Sexy, but it might be Cash's biggest move

Listen (Thursday, July 17): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports GM Brian Cashman may not be making any bigger moves than this. For now.

The big move the Yankees make before the trade deadline could be & Richie Sexson.

The Yankees have reached an agreement with Sexson and he should be in uniform soon. Sexson will play mostly against lefties, whom he has hit .344 against this season. Against righties, he has hit just .178.

But with Hideki Matsui looking more and more likely to need season-ending surgery, Sexson may be the bat that GM Brian Cashman adds.

Cashman is not done talking trade. He is in on Rockies lefty reliever Brian Fuentes, but Fuentes may not be dealt until two weeks from now.

Other than that, the Yankees may be very quiet, feeling that they have the parts to make a strong second-half run. And, if not, there is always next year.

Cashman won't say it, but his actions - or in-actions - indicate he is ready to take a non-playoff year for a huge run, starting in the new stadium.

This offseason the Yankees have tons of money come off their books, giving Cashman the financial flexibility to do whatever he wants. Including make a big move then.

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Isiah Era will be extinguished

Listen (Wednesday, July 16): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Knicks want to rid themselves of the Isiah Era.

Listen (Wednesday, July 16): In the Marchand Report, Andrew Marchand talks about the acquisition of Anthony Roberson.

By ANDREW MARCHAND

With the signing of guard Anthony Roberson, the Knicks are likely pushing Stephon Marbury closer to the door.

Roberson's agent, Chris Grier Luchey, told 1050 that Roberson will sign a two-year deal for $1.6 million. The second year may be the Knicks option.

Roberson's agent says the Knicks look at Roberson as a sparkplug, who could come off the bench and supply points. So why does a guy who will not even make a million dollar a year mean that Marbury's Knick career is in further doubt? Roberson is another replacement for Marbury.

Mike D'Antoni thinks the recently signed Chris Duhon can be his starting point guard. D'Antoni believes Nate Robinson can be a really, really exciting player in his system. And now he believes Roberson can be a shooter off the bench. Add in Jamal Crawford and where does that leave Marbury?

It leaves him no place to play. Beyond that, the Knicks don't seem to want his attitude in the locker room. The Knicks are trying to get out with the old and in with the new.

Marbury is the greatest reminder of the Isiah Era, which is another reason he likely won't around for too much longer.

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Roberson to sign with Knicks

(Wednesday, July 16) The Knicks will sign guard Anthony Roberson later today, which further indicates that Stephon Marbury is a goner. Roberson's agent, Chris Grier Luchey, told 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand that Roberson should sign a two-year deal for a little more than $1.6 million today.

"I think they see Anthony as a guy can come off the bench and score, providing a a sparkplug," Grier Luchey said.

The Knicks now have 16 players on their roster. They will only be allowed to have 15 players when the season begins. Along with Marbury, Jerome James is also a candidate to be released.Both are in the final years of their contracts.

Roberson has previously played with the Warriors and the Grizzlies. He has averaged 4.1 points in 36 career NBA games. He played his college ball at Florida.

The New York Post, citing unamed sources, first reported that the Knicks would sign Roberson.

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K-Rod could be Citi bound next year

Listen (Tuesday, July 15): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand examines if Francisco Rodriguez could be an option to replace Billy Wagner next year.

Listen (Tuesday, July 15): In the Marchand Report, Andrew Marchand empties out the notebook to reveal the latest about the Mets and Yankees.

Listen (Monday, July 14): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Rockies reliever Brian Fruentes is on the Mets and Yankees' radars.

By ANDREW MARCHAND

The Mets' closer of the future could be at Yankee Stadium - and it is not Billy Wagner.

Francisco Rodriguez could be in the Mets' plans this offseason. K-Rod made what everyone expected official this week. He will not resign with the Angels and will become a free agent.

Lo and behold, who is coming off the Mets' books at the end of this season? None other than Wagner, an NL All-Star.

A week from Friday, Wagner will turn 37. Though, it may feel like K-Rod's been around forever, he doesn't turn 27 until next January.

Those 10 years are a big deal as both closers will likely want multi-year contracts. Even if Rodriguez wants four years, which would only take him until he is 31, wouldn't he be a safer bet than two years for Wagner?

Though Wagner has had his moments this year - just ask Willie Randolph - he, like K-Rod, is deserving of being on the All-Star team. Rodriguez has a major-league best 38 saves. He has blown three opportunities.

This offseason, he could have a chance to join the Mets.

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Is Steph a goner

Listen(Wednesday, July 9): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports if Stephon Marbury is a goner or not.

Listen (Tuesday, July 8): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Donnie Walsh wants to replenish his draft pick stock.

Knicks president Donnie Walsh says trade talks concerning David Lee have quieted down. Before the draft, the Knicks had serious discussions with the Grizzlies about the fifth pick for Lee, but it ended up not happening.

Lee is looking for a long-term contract and, though, Walsh hasn't closed the door on that scenario, it seems unlikely. Lee is the most attractive trade chip Walsh has and he will try to use it to pick up young, quality players or to replenish his depleted draft pick stock.

Today, the Knicks officially introduced Chris Duhon as potentially their new point guard, but Walsh wasn't prepared to kick Stephon Marbury out the door yet.

Walsh says he hasn't told anyone that Marbury is not in the team's plans. He pointed out that Marbury could play in a multi-guard attack. Walsh was not very convincing.

He likely is trying to hold out hope that maybe Marbury could have more value via a trade than just coming off the books after this season.

When Walsh says of Duhon, We needed somebody who is a true point guard, that may be all you need to know about how he feels about Marbury.

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Why the Yankees were not players for C.C.

Listen (Monday, July 7): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the Yankees didn't want to pay the high-price the Indians demanded.

The Yankees were never serious players for C.C. Sabathia.

A baseball executive with knowledge of the Yankees thinking says the team had conversations with the Indians about Sabathia, but decided the asking price was too steep.

The Yankees non-interest has dual reasoning. First, as evidenced by turning away from Johan Santana, the Yankees feel as if they should be judicious in protecting their young, high-ceiling assets.

Two, the Yankees feel as if they need to improve internally. That is their best way of making the playoffs. Adding Sabathia would help this year's club, but a three-month rental would still mean paying big, big bucks this winter.

The Yankees could still pursue Sabathia then, which could lead to a tantalizing five-man rotation for next year of Sabathia, Chien-Ming Wang, Andy Pettitte, Phil Hughes and Mike Mussina. Then Ian Kennedy and the rest of the Yankees pitching prospects are just around for the depth, injury or the deterioration of Pettitte or Mussina.

For now, the Yankees are willing to take a step back this season if it means some huge steps forward soon.

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Duhon to join Knicks

(Friday, July 4): Chris Duhon's agent confirmed to 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand that Duhon has reached a verbal agreement with the Knicks on a two-year contract. Duhon had spoke with Orlando about the parameters of a deal, but did not receive a formal offer.

"The chance for Chris to be a starter was too much to pass up," Duhon's agent, Kevin Bradbury, told Marchand.

Bradbury said the Knicks have made it clear that Duhon could start, which could mean that Stephon Marbury's days with the Knicks are numbered. Marbury is in the final year of his contract.

The Sporting News first reported Duhon's agreement with the Knicks.

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Listen (Wednesday, July 2): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Knicks are interested in Sebastian Telfair.

The Knicks have interest in Sebastian Telfair. If they are unable to sign Chris Duhon, then Telfair could be the next point guard on their list.

Andy Miller, Telfair's agent, told 1050, "We have had some discussions," and "There is interest on both sides."

Duhon is in Orlando meeting with the Magic, but while others may be willing to offer him more years and money than the Knicks, the Garden is likely the only place where Duhon could possibly become a legitimate starter.

But the 23-year-old Telfair would be enticing option, starting with the fact that his Stephon Marbury's cousin. The two reportedly once had a falling out for unspecified reasons, which would add to the intriguing storyline.

If the Knicks signed Telfair, would that further hasten Marbury's exit? If they signed Telfair, would the two Coney Island cousins duel in the preseason to see who starts?

The more likely scenario as the Knicks try to bring in another point is that Marbury's days at the Garden are numbered. It is evident the Knicks don't see him as a big part of their team. Add this to the fact, he is in a contract year - and the Knicks may not want him around at all.

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Duhon meeting with the Knicks right now

Listen (Tuesday, July 1): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports on what could be the end of Stephon Marbury's Kinicks career.

(Tuesday, July 1): 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand reports that Bulls free agent point guard Chris Duhon is meeting with the Knicks right now. According to his agent, Kevin Bradbury, the Knicks told Duhon they are looking for a pass-first, point guard.

They booked a flight early this morning for Duhon to come to New York. He is scheduled to return to Chicago later today and could make a decision on the Knicks soon. Bradbury said other teams are interested as well, but declined to name them..

If Duhon were to sign with the Knicks, it might give Donnie Walsh further incentive to buyout the final year of Stephon Marbury's contract.

Bradbury said that last night at midnight when teams are allowed to talk to free agents, Duhon had a good conversation with Knicks' brass.

"We went over the details of what they for in a point guard," Bradbury said. "They said they are looking for a pass-first type guy."

The Knicks would likely only want to sign Duhon to a two-year deal at most because they don't want to tie up money into 2010 because that is the Summer of Lebron James and other big name free agents.

The Knicks are attracted to Duhon because of his four-to-one career assist-to-turnover ratio.Duhon has averaged 6.9 points and 4.5 assists in his four-year career.

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Knicks interested in Duhon?

(Monday, June 30): The agent for free agent Bulls point guard Chris Duhon told 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand that Duhon would be interested in playing for the Knicks. Teams can starting talking to free agents at midnight tonight.

The Sporting News first reported the Knicks interest in Duhon. The Knicks have declined comment, because it is against league rules to talk about free agents until July 1st. They may be interested in Duhon because of his 4-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio.

*****
Charlotte point guard Raymond Felton's agent, Kevin Bradbury, tells 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand that the proposed trade of David Lee for Felton is a "longshot." Bradbury says the Bobcats have given Felton no indication they are interested in trading him and he doesn't think they have any "intention" of doing so.

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Gillick could hold Mets' future in his hands

Listen (Monday, June 30): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand sizes up the trade market for pitchers. The man who could determine the Mets' season is Pat Gillick. Gillick is the Phillies GM.

A baseball executive tells 1050 the Phillies are looking into trading for the Indians C.C. Sabathia and the Mariners' Erik Bedard. Both can be had for the right price. The Phillies need starting pitching to hold off the Mets, who are just three games back. To acquire either pitcher, the Phillies will have to subtract from what is reported to be a thin farm system.

In other words, they will need to make their own Johan Santana deal.

While it is not impossible for Omar Minaya do something big, it is very unlikely. The Mets don't have the chips to bring in a big-time player so they may add someone for their bullpen or their bench, but they aren't expected to be players for Sabathia or Bedard.

They Yankees again are in a strange position. They basically could acquire any of the starters on the market, but seem unlikely too.

A person with knowledge of the Yankees front office says Brian Cashman and Hank Steinbrenner are on the same page. Their position on Sabathia and all the other starters is unchanged as it was for Santana. This means they will only acquire a big-time starter on their terms, which could means they won't acquire a big-time starter.

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Donnie Walsh is just getting started

Listen (Friday, June 27): After Mike D'Antoni talks to the media, Andrew Marchand with Brandon Tierney and Rob Parker.

Danilo Gallinari is the start, not the finish to Donnie Walsh's offseason. Next, David Lee could be traded. The most recent rumor has him going south to rejoin Larry Brown in Charlotte. The Knicks would receive Raymond Felton to be their pure point guard of the future.

The Knicks talks with the Grizzlies about dealing Lee for the fifth pick in the draft was real. Memphis preferred to look elsewhere.

The Knicks' actions indicate that right now they don't see Lee as part of the Mike D'Antoni system. It is true that Lee is one of the only Knicks with trade value, but if the Knicks really thought he was a good fit they wouldn't be shopping him as heavily as they are.

Lee can be a restricted free agent after next year. That means that this offseason the Knicks could sign him to a long-term contract. Walsh appears opposed to doing that because he doesn't want to add salary as his master plan is centered around the Summer of LeBron in 2010.

Walsh wants to be under the cap so he can make a run at LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Paul and Chris Bosh. So Walsh is just getting warmed up.

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The Gallinari pick is all about LeBron.

Listen (Thursday, June 26): After Mike D'Antoni talks to the media, Andrew Marchand with Brandon Tierney and Rob Parker.

Listen (Thursday, June 26): After Donnie Walsh talks to the media, Andrew Marchand with Brandon Tierney and Rob Parker.

Listen (Thursday, June 26): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that everything Donnie Walsh is doing is designed for the Summer of LeBron in 2010.

By ANDREW MARCHAND

The pick of Danilo Gallinari is all about LeBron James.

When Donnie Walsh went over his options, he was looking at the player who could help him the most in 2010. Gallinari, 19, will need time to develop, but the goal is that by 2010 he will be ready to help a team win.

Everything the Knicks are doing is about 2010, the Summer of LeBron.

When the Knicks pick came up, UCLA's Russell Westbrook was already off the board. This left Walsh with the choice between Indiana's Eric Gordon or Gallinari. He went with Gallinari, because two years from now he has the most potential to be a star.

"We weren't going to stretch to take a guard," Walsh said minutes after the selection was made. In Gallinari, Walsh sees a big guy, who can shoot. There are questions if Gallinari can defend, but Walsh likes his potential on the offensive side of the ball.

"He's unusual package with his size," Walsh said.

Gallinari also had connections to the Knicks. His father, Vittorio, played with Mike D'Antoni in Italy. Clearly, that had an impact on this pick.

"Mike and I agreed on it," Walsh said.

What they agree on as well is getting under the cap and making a run at LeBron. To do that, they not only need the money, but they need to be able to show that the team is capable of winning a championship. Gallinari's development will be one of the most important elements for bringing LeBron here in 2010.

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Listen (Tuesday, June 24): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Knicks are looking into O.J. Mayo.

By ANDREW MARCHAND

Knicks President Donnie Walsh calls this draft "confusing." If he is confused with his decades of experience, where do you think that leaves us? So we called in for some help, talking with an NBA GM and a player personnel director. What did we learn in the weeks leading up to this draft?

Well, there is a chance that the Knicks can steal the show. The first way is they could trade up to choose either Michael Beasley (unlikely) or O.J. Mayo (possible, but not probable) or they could trade David Lee (again possible, but not likely) in a deal for the Grizzlies' pick at five. That would give the Knicks two young players to develop before the Summer of LeBron, otherwise known as July, 2010.

(From here on out, Summer of LeBron will be known as SOL.)

What Walsh is not confused about is his plan. As one NBA executive told 1050, there is no one better at laying out a plan and following through with it than Walsh. His plan is to be under the cap in 2010.

To do that, the Knicks probably should start with trading Zach Randolph and/or Eddy Curry. So that is where we will begin. We will end revealing what an NBA Team's scouting report says about the players the Knicks could draft.

1) Can the Knicks trade Zach Randolph?

An NBA GM says yes. In fact, even though Randolph couldn't even make it through a few months of the offseason without finding trouble, a scout says that Randolph has more trade value than Eddy Curry. (Memo to Eddy: Get in shape!). Randolph, says the scout, at least has put up numbers. Randolph sort of did a couple of years ago.

So where could Randolph go? We really don't know so we won't pretend. Philly has been mentioned, but a GM we spoke to wasn't sure about the validity of the report. Still, as a player personnel director says, "Everyone in the league thinks they are Father Flanagan." Walsh is just looking for one team to thinks so on Randolph. As Walsh said the other day, "It takes two to tango."

He wants Randolph to dance out of town.

2) What does it mean that David Lee is being discussed for the No. 5 pick?
It probably means that Lee shouldn't expect a big contract this offseason. Lee can be a restricted free agent next year so if the Knicks want to lock him up long-term, they could do it this year. Since they do not want to add long term deals because of the upcoming SOL in 2010 , they may take their chances with Lee.

If the Knicks convince the Grizzlies to take Lee and Malik Rose for the fifth pick and Brian Cardinal (who has a bad contract for two more years, but comes off the books before SOL), then the post-draft analysis will be all about the Garden.

3) What could the Knicks do at No. 6?
There are so many ways this could go, it is almost pointless to predict. But that has never stopped anyone before, including us. So we project Indiana combo guard Eric Gordon going to the Knicks. The guy can score, has good character and showed toughness playing with a fractured wrist at the end of his freshman year.

There has not been as much talk linking him to the Knicks and judging how Walsh operates that means he is probably just keeping it quiet.

4) Hey, you said you were going to open up a team's scouting reports and tell us what it says.
Will you get to it already?

Okay, okay. Here we go:

Eric Gordon, 6-4, G, Indiana
Scouting Report: People are missing the boat on him. He is tough and can score.

D'Anilo Galinari, 6-6, F, Italy
Scouting Report: Can he guard anyone? Probably not. However, he'll punish people offensively and get punished defensively.

Jerryd Bayless, 6-3, G, Arizona
Scouting Report: A combo guard. He can shoot it, but he doesn't handle the ball well.

Russell Westbrook, 6-3, G, UCLA
Scouting Report: He is the best point guard in this draft after Derrick Rose. He is a big-time defender and is 6-foot-3. He could be the Knicks pick if Seattle doesn't take him at four. He may be too high for either these teams. Before this season, he wasn't on anyone's top 30 list.

D.J. Augustin, 5-11, G, Texas
Scouting Report: He is small and what will hurt him is that guards will shoot over him. He can run an offense.

Kevin Love, 6-9, F, UCLA
Scouting Report: Could be a Carlos Boozer-clone or could have weight control issues with bad knees. He fits Mike D'Antoni's system about 75 percent because of his outlet ability and he can pick and pop. The question is: Can he get his behind up and down the floor? I say yes, but he's not Amare Stoudemire."

O.J. Mayo, 6-4, G, USC
Scouting Report: He is not really a point guard. He can score and he is mature, which could be a function that he is a 20-year-old freshman.

Joe Alexander, 6-8, F, West Virginia
Scouting Report: Needs to improve outside shot, but a tremendous competitor.

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Walsh is thinking trade

Listen (Tuesday, June 24): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports on the trades Donnie Walsh is considering.

Donnie Walsh declined to answer if the Knicks have had discussions with the Grizzlies about a trade that would send David Lee and Malik Rose to Memphis for the No. 5 pick and Brian Cardinal.

What Walsh did make clear is that he is working the phones.

Walsh says this draft is confusing because after the first two choices, he doesn't know how the next three picks will play out. At six, Walsh's could take guards Russell Westbrook or Eric Gordon or Walsh may look overseas and draft Italian Danillo Galinari. In the meantime, he is trying to make a big deal, which could

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Wilpon: Omar's doing a great job

Listen (Friday, June 20): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Fred Wilpon has given Omar Minaya a vote of confidence.

Fred Wilpon basically gave Omar Minaya a vote of confidence.

"I think Omar has done a great job," Wilpon says. "I think our organization is one that has been put in place the last four years. Everyone in the executive roles -- he is the CEO of the Baseball Division -- everybody who makes decisons are not going to make all right decisons. He has made some great decison Contrary about what you all are all reporting about our minor leagues. Our minor leagues are in much better shape then what is being reported."

Wilpon made his comments at the Welcome Home Veterans press conference here in midtown. In doing so, Wilpon also defended the handling of the Willie Randolph firing.

As he told 1050 the day of the firing, Wilpon reiterated it was Minaya's decision to let Randolph go. Wilpon explained that Minaya told him and his son, Jeff, the Chief Operating Officer of the team, on Sunday afternoon that he was leaning toward firing Randolph.

"He said, 'I want to sleep on it overnight, can reconvene a conference call or a meeting for 9 a.m. Monday morning. This was a week ago today. That call came through. He told us what he wanted to do and ownership said, 'Go ahead."

That's what he did, but in doing so Minaya put himself clearly under the microscope. When Wilpon looks at things, though, it appears that Minaya is safe.

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Omar seeks relief, but can't find a partner

Listen (Friday, June 20): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports if Tony Bernazard is sticking a knife in Omar Minaya's back.
Listen (Thursday, June 19): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the trade market is barren right now for Omar Minaya.
Listen (Wednesday, June 18): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the players are now on the clock.

Omar Minaya may want to make a big trade to further turn the page from the Midnight Massacre, but the market doesn't appear to be in his favor right now.

Three baseball executives tell 1050 that it is still too early for Minaya to accomplish anything drastic. The executives point out that even teams that are in the back of their divisions feel as if they could have a run in them.

So other GMs are listening to what Minaya is saying, but are not ready to take action yet. What is Minaya probably saying: "We are looking for a setup man."

The early runner for most talked about reliever is Rockies reliever Brian Fuentes. Fuentes name has already been floated in trade talks, but an executive says he is not available yet. If he does become available, Minaya will not be the only one calling for the Rockies setup man.

Minaya usually becomes most aggressive when things are bleak. The Mets have taken a huge PR hit, Minaya is itching to change the story. But it is going to be hard to find a trade partner to do that right now.

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MLB GM: Mets handled the situation a "bit odd."

Listen (Tuesday, June 17): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that owner Fred Wilpon says the decision was Omar Minaya's. An MLB GM finds the Mets' handling of the situation, a "bit odd."

Mets owner Fred Wilpon tells 1050 the decision to fire Willie Randolph was soley Omar Minaya.

"Omar is in charge," Wilpon said in an early morning conversation. "It was his decision. He made that decision a short time ago, obviously, and decided what to do."

Wilpon then deferred all the questions to Minaya. The Wilpons want the perception to be that it was only Minaya's decision, as if he mentioned his final opinion in passing the same way he might tell them about bringing up a backup catcher.

Of course, the Wilpons were involved in this decision, even if it is true that Minaya made the final decision. Minaya knew their feelings. The Wilpons are his bosses, not the other way around. At the very least, the Wilpons' opinions shaded his.

All around baseball, people are shaking their heads on how the Mets' handled the situation. An MLB GM describes it to 1050 as a "bit odd."

It is odd. More than anything else, Randolph is being fired over last year's collapse. The timing of it is weird. By the way, the Mets have won three of their last four.

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Wilpon points finger at Minaya

Listen (Tuesday, June 17): Andrew Marchand on with Warner Wolf with Mike & Mike breaks the news that Fred Wilpon says it was Omar Minaya's decison.

1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand reports that Mets owner Fred Wilpon says the decison to fire Willie Randolph and his coaches and the timing of the move were soley GM's Omar Minaya.

"Omar is in charge," Wilpon told Marchand this morning. "It was his decision. He made that decision a short time ago, obviously, and decided what to do. You have to ask Omar about that"

Wilpon declined to answer any further questions.

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Randolph Fired

The Mets, who could have fired Willie Randolph at any point since the infamous Memorial Day Meeting, chose after midnight today in Anaheim to finally let their manager go.

After allowing Randolph, pitching coach Rick Peterson and first base coach Tom Nieto to work the dugout in Monday night's win over the Angels, GM Omar Minaya delivered the news.

While the announcement of the move may receive a good reaction from the team's fans, the Mets -- from Fred and Jeff Wilpon to Minaya -- are about to receive a tidal wave of negative backlash for how they handled the firing. If Minaya was behind the way it was handled, it may ultimately be a factor in costing him his job.

Why make Randolph and his soon-to-be ex-coaches fly 3,000 miles out west just to fire them?

It makes little to no sense.

But the Mets made the move and now it is up to Jerrry Manuel to turn this season around.

This release was received at 3:14 a.m. ET

ANAHEIM, Calif., June 17, 2008 - The New York Mets today named Jerry Manuel interim manager, replacing Willie Randolph. Manuel, in his fourth season with the Mets, had been bench coach since 2006. The Mets also named Ken Oberkfell, Luis Aguayo and Dan Warthen to the coaching staff. Rick Peterson and Tom Nieto have been relieved of their coaching duties.

Mets General Manager Omar Minaya will hold a briefing with the media Tuesday, June 17 at 2:00 P.M. PT (5:00 P.M. ET) in the media room at Angel Stadium. Mets Manager Jerry Manuel will meet with the media immediately thereafter.

The 54-year-old Manuel served as Mets first base and outfield coach in 2005. He was Manager of the Chicago White Sox (1998-2003) and led them to an American League best record of 95-67 in 2000. He was named 2000 Major League Manager of the Year by Associated Press and American League Manager of the Year by the Baseball Writers Association of America and the Sporting News. He previously was bench coach for the 2007 World Champion Florida Marlins following six seasons as third base coach for the Montreal Expos.

Oberkfell was the Manager of New Orleans Zephyrs of the Pacific Coast League, his fourth year managing the Mets Triple-A affiliate. He previously managed the Binghamton Mets (AA) of the Eastern League after leading the St. Lucie Mets (A) to the 2003 Florida State League championship in his second season in the Mets minor league system.

Warthen returned to the organization this year joining Oberkfell as pitching coach in New Orleans following two seasons as the bullpen coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was a coach in the Mets minor league system from 2003-2005. Warthen was pitching coach for the Detroit Tigers (1999-2002), San Diego Padres (1996-97), and Seattle Mariners (1992).

Aguayo, as Mets Field Coordinator, oversaw spring training for the minor league teams, extended spring training, and the Mets' fall instructional league team. A ten-year Major League veteran, he played with the Cleveland Indians (1989), New York Yankees (1988), and Philadelphia Phillies (1980-88).

Click here for more 1050 coverage

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He apeared safe on Monday

Listen (Monday, June 16): On Kellerman and Kenny, Andrew Marchand with the latest news on if the Mets will fire Willie Randolph or not.

Listen (Monday, June 16): On Kellerman and Kenny, Andrew Marchand delivers the Marchand Report.

Listen (Monday, June 16): Andrew Marchand on ESPN Radio's Colin Cowherd Show.

Listen (Monday, June 16): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the latest on Willie Watch.

1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand reports it appears Willie Randolph's Mets coaching staff will be spared for at least another day.

Marchand reports that Mets' Triple-A manager Ken Oberkfell - who the Mets have considered promoting to the big club to replace coach Tom Nieto - says he has not heard from the Mets and plans on managing New Orleans tonight in Oklahoma City.

Oberkfell also says his pitching coach Dan Wharthen is still in Oklahoma City. Wharthen is the leading candidate to replace Mets' pitching coach Rick Peterson, if Peterson is fired. Mets GM Omar Minaya is in Anaheim, where the Mets face the Angels tonight.

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Willie Watch II

Listen (Friday, June 13): In Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports public pressure could cost Willie his job.

The Willie Watch continues.

What Willie Randolph faces now is not only the losses piling up, but the public pressure. The Wilpons have left it up to GM Omar Minaya to recommend firing Randolph. According to sources, Minaya believes in Randolph and does not want him to make him a scapegoat.

The problem facing the Mets and their ownership is that the public pressure is increasing. Met fans seem to be sick of this team and seem as if they are about to turn on it.

Would firing hitting coach Howard Johnson enough of a sacrifice? Could Rick Peterson be the fall guy?

Randolph could point to Billy Wagner for his troubles this week, but imagine what the situation would be if the Mets hadn't pulled out of Wednesday's game. The Mets would be staring at seven losses in a row.

Instead, they have lost six of seven and now everyone is wondering who will lose their job?

---

Love confirms he turned down Nets

1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand reports that UCLA forward Kevin Love has been told by Charlotte that if he drops to No. 9 in the draft, they will select him. Love, who worked out with the Knicks today, confirmed 1050 ESPN New York's report earlier this week that he turned down an invitation to workout with the Nets.

"I've got a pretty good indication from my agent [Jeff Schwartz] who talked to Charlotte at nine, who said that if I were to get there [they would take me,]" Love said. "They can't make any guarantees because I'm going to work out with teams higher than them. We had a good feeling that if I were to get there, they would select me."

******

Italian forward Danilo Gallinari says his first choice is to play for the Knicks or Nets and he is not sure if he would work out for other teams. He did indicate that if he is drafted by other teams he will go, but he is a bit hesitant.

---

Donnie could order up extra Mayo

Listen (Thursday, June 12): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports O.J. Mayo would like to be a Knick.

O.J Mayo says he would love to become a Knick. If the draft breaks a certain way, Mayo could be staring Donnie Walsh in the face at No. 6.

Mayo is 6-foot-4 and feels he could play either the point or the off-guard position in the NBA. There are rumors that his buddy, Dwyane Wade, is trying to convince the Heat to bring Mayo to Miami. Miami, who pick second, could trade down to take Mayo. Mayo also could be picked by the Timberwolves with the third picks

But it also seems possible that Mayo could drop to six, which would be fine to him.

"It's the Big Apple," Mayo said. "It's the Mecca. I'm confident in my game and just try my best to do well."

Mayo came across well when he met the media after working out for the Knicks. He preceded almost each of his answer with, "Yes, sir" or "No, sir."

The 20-year-old Mayo averaged more than 20 a game for USC as a freshman. He thinks he would fit nicely in Mike D'Antoni's explosive offense.

"Coach D'Antoni runs an up-tempo offense, almost like a run and gun," Mayo said. "If you can run and you can shoot a little bit, you should be able to very well."

---

Willie Watch could go on for awhile

Listen (Wednesday, June 11): Andrew Marchand with Michael Kay on NY Baseball Tonight.
Listen (Wednesday, June 11): Andrew Marchand reports that the Willie Watch is back on.

The Willie Watch is back on, but it could be on for awhile.

The Mets are spinning into oblivion, but the Wilpons are hesitant to fire Randolph and may give him until the All-Star Break.

Still, Randolph should be worried because the edict at the infamous Memorial Day meeting was to get the Mets turned around. Now, they are sinking closer to last than first.

GM Omar Minaya appears to be safe - for now. However, the notion that Minaya's reprieve could last as long as the next manager does could be false. Minaya's had Randolph's back for awhile so if Minaya finally decides Willie must go, then the Wilpons will question: Why now? And why did you wait this long?

What this means is that Minaya's fate could be tied to the next manager turning things around quickly - like this year. Because it is now possible that Minaya may not be with the Mets when the new Stadium opens next season.

For now, though, it is Willie, who is clearly in trouble.

---

Knicks have some Love for Kevin

Listen (Tuesday, June 10) In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Kevin Love may be the most important player in this draft for the Knicks.

The Knicks have an interest in Kevin Love. 1050 has learned that Love is expected in for a private workout with the Knicks on Friday. If Love is on the board at six, the Knicks may grab him.

The Nets at 10 wanted to workout Love as well, but a source tells 1050 that Love declined the invitation. This indicates that Love may have been guaranteed he won't slip that far.

NBA executives have told 1050 that the Grizzlies at five think Love could be a Carlos Boozer-type in the pros. They could snag Love with the pick before the Knicks.

This could leave the Knicks with a chance at USC's OJ Mayo or Arizona's Jerryd Bayless, if he slides.

Bayless was here at the Knicks' facility today and says he would love to play at the Garden.

Bayless says he had dinner with Mike D'Antoni on Monday night and D'Antoni told him, the Knicks have, "All the tools, he just needs` an engine to run it."

Bayless wouldn't mind being that engine.

Eric Gordon also worked out with the Knicks. Gordon considers himself a point guard and thinks he could find himself in New York, as well.

---

Willie Watch Resumes

Listen (Monday, June 9): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the schedule could finish off Willie Randolph.

The Willie Watch is back on. And it might become as hot as the weather soon.

Willie Randolph needs a win tomorrow night against the Diamondbacks or this story will gain momentum and could dominate the Mets homestand. The fans will certainly not hidr their feelings.

When Randolph goes to the mound to make a pitching change, the boos will likely follow.

But Randolph's bigger immediate problem may be the schedule and the pitching matchups. After the Diamondbacks, the Mets host a pretty good Texas club before going to Anaheim to face the Angels.

In this Diamondbacks series, the Mets have John Maine scheduled to go against Micah Owings tomorrow, but then it is Brandon Webb vs. Mike Pelfrey and Dan Haren vs. Johan Santana, if Santana is healthy enough to start. Potentially, the heat is about to rise at Shea.

Randolph could be in more immediate danger than he was at the infamous Memorial Day meeting. That day, he was told to turn this season around. Now, Randolph and the Mets sit under .500 and closer to last place than they are to first.

---

ESPN analyst Rick Sutcliffe thinks Joba Chamberlain needs to control his emotions.

Listen (Friday, June 6): Andrew Marchand spoke with Cy Young Award Winner and ESPN analyst Rick Sutcliffe. Sutcliffe doesn't think the Yankees have handled the situation correctly.
Listen (Friday, June 6): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Cy Young Award Winner and ESPN analyst Rick Sutcliffe thinks Joba Chamberlain needs to control his emotions.

When Joba Chamberlain makes his second start on Sunday, he needs to control his emotions better, according to former Cy Young winner and ESPN analyst, Rick Sutcliffe. That is one of the adjustments that Chamberlain needs to make when he throw 75-to-80 pitches.

"I think that some of that emotion needs to be channeled," Sutcliffe says. "This guy as a reliever you can come out there and get away with all that, but as a starting pitcher. He will bring it back, I'm sure. I'm so impressed when I hear him speak after or before a game. This guy is a tremendously intelligent guy, he will figure it out."

Sutcliffe says that Chamberlain can't try to throw as hard as he did in his first outing. The Stadium gun had Chamberlain in the high-90s and even at 101 a couple of times, Joe Girardi said that Chamberlain pitched in the 93-to-97 range.

Sutcliffe says Chamberlain should be in the 90-93 range for the most part.

"As a starting pitcher, there has to be a calm to you, pretty much. Unless men get into scoring position or you get late into the ballgame, then you can whatever you got left and leave it on the field. To get to that point right there, you have to use all of your pitches."

Girardi says as Chamberlain's pitch counts increases he will show off more of his repertoire.

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Damon questions the new Joba Rules

Listen (Thursday, June 5): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Joe Giardi disagrees with Johnny Damon.

Joe Girardi says he allows his players to say whatever they want - but that doesn't mean he has to agree with them. After Johnny Damon questioned starting Joba Chamberlain in the Daily News, Girardi says the Yankees are doing the right thing. Girardi doesn't even think Chamberlain would be better served raising his pitch count in the minors.

"I disagree," Girardi said. "I don't think the process would have went any quicker if we had sent him to the minor leagues. I think it is important if you have your best arms here."

Before today's game, Damon reiterated that moving Chamberlain to the rotation could be costing this year's club.

"Possibly in the short term," Damon said. "I think teams realize he is on a pitch count. Joba is a guy who strikes guys out so his pitch counts are going to get a bit higher."

Are the Yankees sacrificing the season?

"I sure of heck hope not," Damon said. "I think we have enough talent to get back to the playoffs. We do have a better division this year that we need to stay around as close as possible until we figure out who is going to the bridge the gap to Mariano."

Chamberlain's next start is Sunday against the Royals. He is scheduled to throw 75-80 pitches

---

Yanks COO: George is "frustrated" not to still be involved

Listen (Wednesday, June 4): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the latest on George Steinbrenner.

A month from today, George Steinbrenner turns 78. Shortly, after his birthday, The Boss is hopeful of making his way up to New York and attending the All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium.

Two days ago, Chief Operating Officer Lon Trost spoke with The Boss. Trost says that Steinbrenner has had difficulty letting go of the day-to-day controls of the team, but has a strong desire to be in the Bronx on July 15.

"Hopefully, he will be up for the All-Star Game," Trost says. "I think he is frustrated that he is not involved as much, but he is letting the children do it."

---

Joba's earned the hype

Listen (Tuesday, June 3): On New York Baseball Tonight, Andrew Marchand talks with Don LaGreca about Joba Chamberlain's and Pedro Martinez' starts.

Listen (Tuesday, June 3): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Joba Chamberlain has earned his hype.

Because of all the hype now, it is easy to forget where Joba Chamberlain started.

In 2006, every major league team had a shot at drafting Chamberlain, but the Yankees didn't pick him until the 41st selection. It was the sandwich pick the Yankees received when Tom Gordon signed as a free agent with the Phillies.

In that draft, Chamberlain wasn't even the most sought-after pitcher by the Yankees. The Yankees drafted Ian Kennedy with the 21st pick. Kennedy's signing bonus was $2.25 million , Chamberlain was $1.1 million.

Before last season, Baseball America ranked the Yankees top 10 prospects and Chamberlain was fourth. Chamberlain stared up at Phil Hughes, outfielder Jose Tabata and pitcher Dellin Betances.

When Hughes debut at the end of April last year, there was still no question that he was the pride of the Yankees' future. But now Joba is the gem -- and this is the rare case, where a starter is making his MLB debut and the hype is really earned.

Chamberlain has struck out 64 batters in his 47 2/3 innings of relief. He has only allowed seven earned runs. His career ERA is 1.32.

Hank Steinbrenner has already anointed Chamberlain as the Yankees Josh Becket. Chamberlain will throw 65-to-70 pitches against the Jays - the decision to return him to the rotation could be where we one day point to the beginning of a new Yankee dynasty.

---

Mayo could be there for Knicks at six

Listen (Monday, June 2): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports how UCLA's OJ Mayo's could end up a Knick.

The way the NBA Draft may be shaping up, the Knicks could have a shot at USC guard OJ Mayo with the sixth pick. An NBA executive tells 1050 the Grizzlies have an interest in UCLA's Kevin Love at five.

The Grizzlies view Love as potentially another Carlos Boozer. Most draft projections have Love going in the second half of the Draft Lottery because there are questions if Love's game will translate against bigger, faster NBA forwards.

So this could leave the 6-foot-4 Mayo for the Knicks. Mayo is primarily an off-guard, though some think he could play the point in the NBA. He averaged 20 points, three assists and four boards as a freshman in the Pac-10. Trent Johnson coach Stanford this past season and watched Mayo score 25 points in 77-64 Trojan win.

"He's got a nice mid-range game," Johnson said. "He can shoot the three-ball deep. Like I said, he is better off the ball than people give him credit for and he is a better defender than people give him credit for."

Mayo came to USC with a lot of hype. If he stayed another year, he might have been the No. 1 pick in next year's draft. Now, the Knicks may be able to select him at six.

---

Torre Story: The behind the scenes tale of "Clueless Joe"

Listen (Thursday, May 29): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the famous "Clueless Joe" headline wasn't about what most people think.

It is a part of Joe Torre's Yankee legend. When he arrived in New York, the back page of the Daily News read, "Clueless Joe."

But 13 years later, the reference is still continually misinterpreted. Torre wasn't being called clueless as a manager. Then Daily News columnist, Ian O'Connor, wrote that Torre didn't know what he was getting into with George Steinbrenner. Anthony Rieber, then an editor at the News, authored the backpage headline: Clueless Joe.

"His opinion was that Torre was making a mistake," Rieber said. "That he didn't know what he was getting into himself into. So I came up with the headline Clueless Joe,"

But the point of the column and the headline has been misinterpreted for years. It wasn't about Torre's managerial skills, it was about Torre dealing with the Boss.

"Ian's point was that Torre - who had a pretty good life as a broadcaster - didn't need to be involved in this," Rieber said.

What happened the day the headline came out?

"I can't remember any reaction," Rieber said.

For Reiber, now a sports writer at Newsday, it is an anonymous career highlight. "Nobody thought it would be talked about 13 years later," Rieber said.

---

Two baseball execs: Omar looking for a clubhouse presence

Listen (Wednesday, May 28): On New York Baseball Tonight, Andrew Marchand speaks with Don La Greca about Mets' trade possibilities and Carlos Delgado's struggles.
Listen (Wednesday, May 28): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the Mets are asking other teams for "energy guys" in trade talks.

Two baseball executives familiar with Mets GM Omar Minaya's thinking tell 1050 that Minaya is trying to trade for an "energy guy." One of the executives says Minaya is asking other teams for a low-cost player who could bring "some fresh air" to liven up the clubhouse and contribute on the field.

The Orioles' Kevin Millar would fall into this category, but Baltimore likely wouldn't trade Millar right now.

The Mets are not looking to add an every day player. The Mets feel as if their starting lineup is set if they can get it healthy. They have concerns about Carlos Delgado at first, but are not ready to give up on him. The Mets still think Moises Alou can be productive.

So Minaya is making calls right now, trying to find someone to add a clubhouse presence. What he is finding is that the trade market is quiet. Even last place teams still feel as if they can make a run because of the wild card and are hesitant to deal at the moment.

But Minaya's history is to make a move when things are going the wrong way - he is trying to do that right now.

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Willie Watch 2008

Listen (Tuesday, May 27): Andrew Marchand on Baseball Tonight with Don LaGreca says Omar Minaya is trying to make a big move, but the market is not in his favor.
Listen (Tuesday, May 27): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Randolph better start winning.
Listen (Tuesday, May 27): In the Marchand Report, Andrew Marchand talks with Kellerman and Kenney about the possibility of Wally Backman replacing Willie Randolph.
Listen (Tuesday, May 27): Andrew Marchand on with Colin Cowherd talking about the Mets.

The Mets are playing for Willie Randolph's job right now. They have six more games on this homestand and if they don't come out of it with at least a 4-3 record, Randolph may not be the manager anymore.

What the Mets continue to create is a monster that is picking up momentum until it likely will gobble up Randolph. By not saying that Randolph will finish the season, the Mets have invited more speculation. There are more outlets than ever for fans and media to vent. From talk radio to back pages to blogs, the boos will follow Randolph all over Shea until ownership feels it can't take the negativity that is tearing up its $140 million team.

Over the last 162 games - a full season - the Mets are an under .500-team under Randolph. Omar Minaya says they own championship talent. If Minaya is right, then the onus falls on Randolph. It has been there since he was almost fired at the end of last season's collapse. Now, the Mets have given Randolph a semi-reprieve.

They even say that Randolph's job was not in jeopardy. Of course, when the clubhouse doors opened yesterday, the Mets wouldn't say that Randolph was still the manager. What does that tell you?

---

Marchand Memo

Listen (Monday, May 26): Andrew Marchand on with Bill Daughtry after Omar Minaya says that Willie Randolph is staying on as manger. Marchand says that Randolph's job is still in jeopardy.

MARCHAND MEMO: Willie needs real support or should be fired
To: Mets executives
From: Andrew Marchand
Re: Firing Willie Randolph
CC: Jerry Manuel

Dear Met Execs:

You have to decide now.

Not a week from now. Not a month from now. Now.

You have to decide if you think Willie Randolph is a good manager or not. If you really don't think he is the man for the job, then let him go now.

Because, if this is the case, you are just prolonging the inevitable.

You didn't just have a two-and-a-half hour meeting because of Randolph's comments about SNY and race. Yes, The Memo knows that Fred Wilpon was very mad over those words. Fred is proud that the Mets' network is more unbiased than YES or MSG.

But the problems with this team are that over the last 162 games, the Mets are not even a .500 team. That doesn't reflect well on anyone; especially the manager.

The feeling from most people is that the Mets have to start playing better or you will fire Willie. Willie needs to win something like eight of 10. If not he is fired.

But really, what will be different? He will be the same manager.

On top of this, the groundswell is about to get very loud. Between people calling into sports talk radio, the backpages and blogs, the boos will not quiet at Shea, if you continue to lose.

If he is the right guy, you need to say, clearly and unequivocally that he is the manager. That is the only way to make this story go away.

So no more press conferences that say nothing, please. You need to make a definitive statement. Either way. But you need to do it.

Now.

---

First official sign Willie's in trouble: The Silent Treatment

Listen (Friday, May 23): In the Marchand Minute, Jerry Manuel is the leading candidate to replace Willie Randolph, if Randolph is fired. Manuel may even be trying to show he is a better alternative.

Listen (Thursday, May 22): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Wilpons' silence is not good for Willie Randolph's future.

Why didn't Mets ownership return Willie Randolph's calls before he apologized for his recent comments on race and SNY? Mets media relations VP Jay Horwitz tells 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand that "Omar Minaya returned the call on behalf of Mets' ownership."

Randolph and Mets Chief Operating Officer Jeff Wilpon usually speak often, which seems to make Wilpon's decision not to return Randolph's call telling. Wilpon declined to comment when contacted by Marchand.

When meeting the media on Wednesday, Randolph apologized to ownership for comments about the race and the team-owned TV network. He, however, was unable to do it personally to the Wilpons, which appears to have been their decision.

---

Trading Zach could show how serious the Knicks are about LeBron

Listen (Wednesday, May 21): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Zach Randolph could be traded to find room in the salary cap.
Listen (Wednesday, May 21): Andrew Marchand on ESPN Radio's The Herd.

Two NBA executives tell 1050, there is a trade market for Zach Randolph.

As one of the executives says, "Everyone in this league thinks they are Father Flanagan and can turn a player around."

There are evaluators who think that Randolph can be a productive player on a winning team, but the executives warned the Knicks can't expect to receive equal value in return. The Knicks' best hope is to package Randolph and his bad contract with the No. 6 pick to get some salary cap relief.

If Donnie Walsh does this, he will be supporting his words with actions about being serious players in the Summer of LeBron in two years. Walsh has sounded determined to give the Knicks more flexibility, but that is usually what executives say when they come to the Garden and then they start feeling pressure and act rashly.

The key for the Knicks being in position for LeBron may be James Dolan. One of the executives says holding your cards for two years can only be attempted if ownership understands and supports the plan.

If ownership pressures the front office to try to win now, tearing down the salary cap is hard to accomplish.

So what happens with Randolph will give us our first indication as to if the LeBron dream might have some life.

---

Walsh will consider dealing pick

Listen (Tuesday, May 20, 2008): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Knicks will still have options at the six pick.

We now have a little bit more of a clue what the Knicks will do on Draft Day. Both Donnie Walsh and Mike D'Antoni said that they prefer to take the best player available.

Now, according to Walsh, his work begins. He must figure out who the best player available will be at the six spot.

The Knicks didn't get lucky on Lottery Night. Instead of moving into the top spot and getting Derrick Rose, they dropped a spot and now will pick sixth. Walsh said this gives the team versatility.

Walsh also said he may trade the pick. He could package it with one of his undesirable contracts to move money off the cap as he works toward the Summer of LeBron.

As for Mike D'Antoni, he agreed it is a good story tying him to the Bulls who picked up the No. 1 pick, but he has no regrets.

---

Bayless or Gallinari are interesting alternatives

Listen (Monday, May 19): Andrew Marchand interviews Fran Fraschilla about the NBA Draft.

The odds are against the Knicks lucking into the first pick in the Draft Lottery, but they still should be able to get an impact player.

The Knicks have a less than eight percent (7.6) chance of winning the No. 1 pick and point guard Derrick Rose. They have a little more than eight percent chance (8.44) of picking up the second selection and forward Michael Beasley.

The most likely spots for the Knicks are either No. 5 or 6 pick. They have a more than 25 percent (25.5) chance to land at five and a more than 38 percent chance (38.51) to land at six. They can't have the fourth pick.

If the Knicks don't get Beasley or Rose, they could still land an exciting player. At five or six, Arizona freshman point guard Jerryd Bayless could be available. ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla says that Bayless could have some Jason Kidd in him.

Bayless' father, Brad, is a psychologist. He told 1050, his son would love to come to New York. Bayless has a connection to the Knicks' Mike D'Antoni. Jerryd Bayless grew up in Phoenix, watching D'Antoni up close. One of Bayless' coaches was Frank Johnson - who had D'Antoni on his staff when Johnson led the Suns. When Johnson was fired, D'Antoni was elevated to the head position.

Johnson is a family friend of the Baylesses. "He is an upper middle class, tough kid," the father told 1050. Adding to Bayless' pull to New York is his older brother, Justin, works at Morgan Stanley.

The Knicks could also go overseas for 19-year-old Danilo Galinari. Galinari's father played in Milan with Mike D'Antoni. "In a few years, he has a chance to very much be like a Dirk Norwitzki-type player," Fraschila said. Gallinari is 6-foot-9 and can shoot the ball.

---

The Yankees play nobody

Listen (Monday, May 19): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports the Yankees schedule is easy.
Listen (Friday, May 16): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand says Johan Santana must really be the Mets stopper.

The Yankees' schedule is about to become much easier. The question is: Can they take advantage of it?

Between now and the next Subway Series, the Yankees have 35 games. Of the 35, 23 are against teams that have records that are .500 or under. There are twelve games against teams with above .500 records. Those, though, are all against surprise clubs & teams that figure to go south soon.

There are six games against the Orioles and three against the A's. Plus, there are three against the Astros, who may be for real.

Of the 35 games, more than half are at home. The Yankees will be in the Bronx for 19 games. Alex Rodriguez is scheduled to be activated tomorrow. Jorge Posada might not be that far behind and the conversation could be different by the time the Yankees go to Shea on Friday, June 27.

If isn't though, the Yankees could stumble into the All-Star break. Because after the Mets series, they play Texas and then Boston, Tampa and Toronto.

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Wagner: Why isn't everyone accountable?

(Thursday, May 15): Billy Wagner on with Michael Kay Listen

(Thursday, May 15): Minutes after Billy Wagner made his comments in the Mets' clubhouse, Andrew Marchand went on with Michael Kay. Listen

WAGNER: It will be "rectified"

By ANDREW MARCHAND

A frustrated Billy Wagner thinks that some of his teammates need to be more accountable with the media. "Someone tell me why the [bleeping] closer is being interviewed and I didn't even play," Wagner said as he walked away from reporters after a session with the media. "And not the guys over there. I got it. They're gone. Shocker."

On his weekly spot on the Michael Kay Show, Kay asked Wagner whom specifically he meant. Wagner declined to say whom he was calling out. It seemed as if he were pointing toward Carlos Delgado and Carlos Beltran.

Delgado didn't talk after Thursday's 1-0 Mets' loss to the Nationals. Beltran did. Wagner said that he and David Wright shouldn't answer the majority of the media questions. "There are other guys on the team that need to answer some questions," Wagner told Kay. Wagner added that he thinks that it will be "rectified" on Friday. Wagner did not explain exactly how it will be rectified. "You need to stand there during the bad times, not just during the good times," Wagner said. Also, Johan Santana decided not to answer questions this week from English-speaking reporters. Santana is scheduled to start on Friday against the Yankees.

MLB GM: Santana's velocity is down

A major league GM tells 1050 that Johan Santana's velocity is down. His fastball, once 95 MPH, is now in the low 90s. The GM also says that Santana's arm movement doesn't look the same as it once did.

This is not to say that Santana is still not a very good pitcher, but it is a bit alarming. Santana will enter his first Subway Series start tomorrow at 4-2 with a 3.10 ERA. They are solid numbers, but not the dominant ones imagined when Omar Minaya traded for Santana. "He has performed well," Minaya said. "He easily could have two or three more victories. We haven't given him some support. He has left some games and we haven't been able to protect the lead. Hopefully, he continues to pitch well and I think as the weather gets warm he has the ability to pitch better."

That has been true over the past three years. In April and May, Santana's ERA has been more than three. In June, August and September, it has been below three. For some reason, probably just a statistical anomaly, Santana's toughest month has been July, where his ERA is nearly four.

The MLB GM who talked to 1050 said Santana is still an elite starter, he just may have seen his best years already

MLB GM: Hank's not helping

(Wednesday, May 14): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that an MLB GM thinks Hank Steinbrenner isn't helping. -Listen

A Major League GM told 1050 that Hank Steinbrenner's comments might be "good for the media, but they serve no benefit" for the Yankees.

Steinbrenner unleashed his latest salvo by telling the Post's Kevin Kernan, "The bottom line is that the team is not playing the way it is capable of playing. These players are being paid a lot of money and they had better decide for themselves to earn that money."

The GM contacted by 1050 says that he thinks there is "entertainment value" in Hank's comments, but he doesn't think the players respond to an owner's words.

The question is: What does GM Brian Cashman think of them. Cashman doesn't like them, but he won't say that on the record. The MLB GM noted that Cashman has tactfully fired back. Cashman's actions might speak louder.

Steinbrenner says, "We're going to do everything we can turn to it around this year. I guarantee we'll get his thing straight next year."

At the end of this year, Cashman's contract is up. The MLB GM says Cashman can easily get a job, because he is so respected in the league. By the winter, will Cashman want to get away from Hank?

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D'Antoni's the man for the Knicks

1050 Reacts - Listen:

Listen - (Tuesday, May 13): In the Marchand Minute, reports that James Dolan had a say in the hiring of Mike D'Antoni.

Listen - (Monday, May 12): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand's Questions for Mike D'Antoni to answer

Andrew Marchand
Max Kellerman
Jon Rothstein
Brandon Tierney
Rob Parker

MARK JACKSON PLAYS THE ROLE OF DON MATTINGLY

By ANDREW MARCHAND

Listen - (Saturday, May 10) The Knicks have hired Mike D'Antoni as their new coach, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to 1050 ESPN New York at around 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon.

The Knicks confirmed the news five hours later. Sports Illustrated and the Boston Globe were the first to report the hiring on their websites.

D'Antoni comes to the Knicks bench in much the same fashion as Joe Girardi arrived to the Yankees dugout. Playing the role of Don Mattingly in this case was Mark Jackson.

Jackson was deemed the leading candidate by the media, although Donnie Walsh never said so. It was the same way with Mattingly. He was supposedly the leading candidate, but the Yankees never said so.

Those who have spent time around Walsh, like Pacers director of media, David Benner warned not to assume Jackson was the leading candidate.

"I think it is presumptuous for anyone to think he has a leading the candidate unless he actually comes out and says he has a leading candidate," Benner said on April 30.

Walsh never said Jackson was the leading candidate. Walsh patiently waited for the first round to end and to see who would shake free. The Suns all but signed their divorce papers with D'Antoni, making him a pseudo free agent.

D'Antoni has averaged 58 wins the last four years and has brought his team to two Western Conference Finals. Jackson has never coach an NBA game.

So for what is believed to be a four-year, $24 million contract, D'Antoni is the new Knick coach. Mark Jackson is left, feeling like Don Mattingly. Jackson is on the outside looking in at a job he really wanted.

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Yanks Team President accuses MLB of bias against the Yanks

Listen - (Friday, May 9): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Randy Levine, the Yankees president, accused MLB of being bias against the Yankees in a private meeting to discuss Kyle Farnsworth's appeal.

Yankees team president Randy Levine accused Major league Baseball of having it out for the Yankees. The accusation came during Kyle Farnsworth's appeal of his three game suspension, a person with knowledge of Tuesday's private meeting told 1050.

The person said that Levine became heated, claiming MLB doles out harsher rulings against the Yankees than other teams. In this case, the man who doled out the initial penalty was MLB's disciplinarian, Bob Watson. Watson is a former General Manager of the Yankees. In response to the information, Levine told 1050, "The Yankees made a presentation on the facts and the merits. It was stated business-like. We don't have an issue with the Commissioner or Major League Baseball."

An MLB spokesman was looking into the matter before commenting.

On April 15, Farnsworth threw a pitch behind Manny Ramirez' head. Farnnsworth said it was unintentional. In the Yankees presentation to MLB Tuesday, Levine, joined by GM Brian Cashman and assistant GM Jean Afterman, said that Farnsworth slipped during his delivery.

John McHale Jr., the arbitrator in the case, chose to reduce Farnsworht's suspension from three games to one.

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D'Antoni will come to New York for the bucks, not the Knicks

Listen - (Thursday, May 8): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Mark Jackson wants the Knicks job, while Mike D'Antoni will have to be bribed to take it.

Mark Jackson really wants to be the next coach of the Knicks, while Mike D'Antoni views the Knicks as his second choice.

That is what sources tell 1050 as Donnie Walsh contemplates offering the job to Jackson or D'Antoni. There are reports that the Knicks will give D'Antoni a "staggering" amount of money. Walsh, though, will not comment.

He also apparently did not meet today with Warren LeGarie, D'Antoni's agent. LeGarie was scheduled to take a connection flight from New York to San Francisco today, but it is believed that he did not get together with Walsh.

Walsh did meet with D'Antoni this past week, but it is unclear if he is still just doing his due diligence before hiring Jackson or if he has a real interest in D'Antoni.

There is little doubt that D'Antoni wants Walsh to be interested. D'Antoni's first choice is to go to Chicago, but the Bulls may not have the bucks that D'Antoni seeks. The Knicks surely do - the question is if Walsh is sold on D'Antoni.

From what we are told, if Walsh is, then he is going to have to buy D'Antoni's affection.

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D'Antoni has no offer from the Knicks yet

Listen - (Wednesday, May 7): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that the Knicks have not made any offers to Mike D'Antoni yet.

(Wednesday, May 7, 1:35 p.m.) In e-mails to 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand, Warren LeGarie, the agent for Mike D'Antoni, says the Knicks have not made D'Antoni an offer yet. LeGarie added, he has received an offer from one team involved, He didn't specify from whom, but it is presumably the Bulls. LeGarie also says there is no Friday deadline imposed by the Suns to make a deal with another team.

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Jackson is in a strong position

Listen - (Tuesday, May 6): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Mark Jackson is waiting and is in good position.

1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand reports that Mark Jackson appears to be in strong position as the Knicks' leading candidate. Mike D'Antoni is likely headed to Chicago, according to ESPN.com, which means Sam Mitchell is really safe in Toronto. Avery Johnson is still a Knick possibility, but there is a feeling he may be too sensitive to criticism for New York. This leaves Jackson as the last man standing.

Plus, a source tells Marchand that Jackson has a "decent relationship" with Stephon Marbury, which is another plus to his candidacy. The Knicks are hopeful of getting something out of Marbury in the final year of his contract.

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Emery tells 1050: Roger should, 'Run and Hide'

Listen - (Monday, May 5): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Richard Emery, Brian McNamee's lawyer, says that Roger Clemens should ask for reduced jail time from the Feds.

There were reports that Roger Clemens might drop his defamation suit against Brian McNamee, but McNamee's lawyer, Richard Emery, never believed them.

"I thought it would be too rational," Emery said. "These guys don't act rational. From Day One, they have plugged away and dug themselves into a deeper and deeper hole and that is what they continue to do . I expected that they wouldn't withdraw the case."

Emery expectations were correct. Clemens has now apologized for "mistakes in his personal life," but he continues to deny he ever used HgH or steroids. In an interview with 1050 ESPN New York, Emery responded to the apology by saying the smart thing for Clemens to do would be to drop the defamation case against McNamee.

"They instead put him on bended knee in front of the American public on the issues of his apparent cheating on his wife and his family and are preserving the case, which seems to me completely silly because what they are doing is they are essentially conceding that he had a terrible reputation and that he didn't deserve any good reputation that he had because he was apparently a cheater," Emery said.

So if Emery were advising Clemens what would he tell him to do?

"Run and hide," Emery said. "Get rid of everything. Stay low for as long as possible and try to make a deal with the feds where you tell the truth and get as short a prison sentence as possible."

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Avery Johnson is a serious candidate

Listen - (Friday, May 2nd): In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Avery Johnson has connections to Donnie Walsh.

It seems very likely that Avery Johnson will be interviewed by Donnie Walsh for the Knicks' coach job.

Johnson's mentor and his college coach, Ben Jobe, and Walsh are very tight.

"It would be the greatest thrill to have [someone who is like] my brother with [someone who is like] my son working together," Jobe told 1050ESPN.com in a phone interview.

Jobe says that right now, Johnson is in "shock" over being fired by the Mavericks.

"No matter how strong you are, it is a shock to your system," Jobe said.

Jobe, who coached Johnson at Southern University, has known Walsh since the early '70s. Their careers have intersected since then and they worked together at South Carolina under Frank McGuire and with the Nuggets.

"He is an exceptional person," Jobe, 75, said of Walsh.

Jobe thinks that Johnson and Walsh are a perfect fit because they are "too honorable men."

Meanwhile, the New York Post reported today that Walsh met with Rick Carlisle about the Knicks' job. Carlisle has not returned a message left on his cell phone by 1050.

Multiple people who have worked with Walsh say that the longer the process goes on, it is neither negative or positive for Mark Jackson, who is thought to be the leading candidate. They almost all say that Walsh is just "meticulous" and wants to check all his options before making a decision.

One person that Walsh apparently has no desire to speak with is Patrick Ewing. Magic Team President, Pat Williams, told 1050, that, to his knowledge, the Knicks have not asked permission to speak with Ewing. Ewing is an assistant coach with the Magic.

Ewing declined a 1050 interview request through his agent.

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Wasn't Don Mattingly supposed to be the Yankees manager?

Listen - (Thursday, May1st) In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports Ian Kennedy could be sent down if he doesn't pitch well tonight.

Listen - (Wednesday, April 30th) In the Marchand Minute, Andrew Marchand reports that Donnie Walsh may not have a leading candidate yet.

Mark Jackson may make the most sense as the next Knicks' coach, but it does seem possible that the media is way ahead of Donnie Walsh's pace.

Pacers' director of public information, David Benner, worked with Walsh for more than two decades. From what he sees, the media might be ahead of where the story really is. Walsh hasn't said Jackson is the leading candidate, the media has.

"I think it is presumptuous for anyone to assume that it is Mark Jackson or Rick Carlisle," Benner said. Why?

"My guess in my dealings with him, the way things have been done here, I think it would be presumptuous for anyone to think he has a leading candidate, unless he comes out and says he has a leading candidate," Benner said.

Jackson seems like he should be the leading candidate. Walsh is close with him. Walsh thinks he can be a great coach one day. Jackson is from New York and was a Knick player. It all adds up.

But before the Yankees named Joe Torre's replacement, nearly everyone reported that Don Mattingly was the favorite. We all know how that ended.