Mets players stunned by strange day at Citi
Photo credit: Newsday / Alejandra Villa | Mets players stood behind GM Omar Minaya in the controversy over Tony Bernazard's firing.
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What began as a routine news conference to announce the dismissal of Mets executive Tony Bernazard took a bizarre turn Mondaywhen general manager Omar Minaya accused Daily News sportswriter Adam Rubin -- whose reporting played a role in Bernazard's firing -- of improper conduct.
In the Mets' clubhouse, the players were just as stunned as viewers watching at home.
"Absolutely," Mets catcher Brian Schneider said when asked if it were one of the most outlandish news conferences the players had ever seen. "Just like Adam didn't expect it, neither did we. It was just kind of quiet, because we were all listening."
Carlos Delgado did not see the live broadcast but heard enough about it.
"I'm surprised, but anything can happen here," Delgado said. "I wish I would've saw it. I don't want to say it's funny, because it's obviously not funny, it's a very sensitive situation, but maybe there was something out of line and needed to be addressed."
Most players -- who were in disbelief in a clubhouse that became circus-like after the news conference -- believe the situation is something that needs to be worked out between Minaya and Rubin, but a couple of players circled the wagons to defend their boss.
"If Rubin did what he did, if he asked for a job like Omar said he did, I think he should step out and say, 'Yeah, I did,' '' Carlos Beltran said. "I know Omar and he's an honest guy. I believe he's saying the truth."
Gary Sheffield said he did not know what to make of the finger-pointing episode. "I don't know who's telling the truth. I don't know the reporter very well, but I believe Omar is a pretty credible guy," said Sheffield, who said at least a couple of players were laughing while watching the showdown unfold.
David Wright said he heard the "rumblings" but had not yet heard the whole story. Said Wright, "You never know what to expect."
