Mets release Cora

PHILADELPHIA - The Mets potentially saved $2 million from the 2011 budget by releasing Alex Cora yesterday. If Cora had appeared in 18 more games, his $2-million contract option for next season would have vested.

Cora, 34, was batting .207 in 62 games. Billed as a leader in the clubhouse, he was as expensive as any backup infielder in baseball with a salary of $1.85 million. That's a lot to pay for leadership.

"Cora's a great, great guy," general manager Omar Minaya said. " . . . I have all the confidence in the world Alex Cora's going to be a general manager one day."

F-Mart's fear

When Fernando Martinez and Ruben Tejada were pulled from the Triple-A Buffalo lineup Friday, unfounded rumors spread that the Mets were going to trade the duo.

Neither player was in any real jeopardy of being dealt, because there's little chance such valuable prospects would pass through waivers. But trade rumors trickled down to Martinez, who was not told of his promotion until yesterday morning. "It would make me sad to go to another team," he said.

Pelfrey safe

Manager Jerry Manuel said Mike Pelfrey will will start as scheduled Tuesday against the Rockies. The Mets hope they've spotted a flaw in Pelfrey's delivery in which he might be tipping his pitches by slowing down his arm when he throws off-speed pitches.

Carlos happy for Carlos

Carlos Beltran on former Met Carlos Delgado, who signed a minor-league deal with the Red Sox: "He sent me a text [Friday] night when he signed with them. I'm happy he's back. After being out so long, he really worked hard on his rehab and finally he got healthy and he has an opportunity to play the game."