Tuesday, December 14, 1999Griffey rejects deal to Mets
The Associated PressANAHEIM, Calif. — Ken Griffey Jr. blocked a trade to the New York Mets today after the Seattle Mariners thought they'd found a buyer for the 10-time All-Star.
Mariners president Chuck Armstrong called Griffey's agent, Brian Goldberg, with the proposed deal, but Goldberg said no. Goldberg had told the Enquirer Saturday that Griffey would not approve a trade to any team but the Reds. The Reds backed out of trade talks Saturday.
Neither Phillips nor Mariners general manager Pat Gillick identified the players the Mets agreed to send Seattle. But a person involved in the talks, speaking on the condition he not be identified, said the sides agreed on closer Armando Benitez, outfielder Roger Cedeno and young pitcher Octavio Dotel.
Griffey has the right to reject any trade as a 10-and-5 player — 10 years in the majors, the last five with the same team.
“I don't feel like we were wasting time,” Mets general manager Steve Phillips said. “I think it was a worthy effort to pursue, and an exciting one to pursue.”
“At this point, I don't think he wants to go to the Mets,” Gillick said. “You're always hopeful something will change.”
Gillick emphasized the “at this point.” Phillips also said he will continue working to try to land Griffey.
“I'm always willing to leave that door ajar to be revisited,” Phillips said.
Griffey asked the Mariners to trade him. He will become a free agent after the 2000 season.
Gillick, like Phillips, wouldn't rule out another attempt to trade Griffey to New York.
“I think the Mets have a good ballclub and a good situation,” Gillick said. “I think it's a nice place to play. You're always hopeful people want to play in a winning situation.”
Reds general manager Jim Bowden said he would wait to pursue Griffey again after he becomes a free agent. Bowden gave up on a trade when Seattle insisted that second baseman Pokey Reese be included in the deal.
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