ANAHEIM, Calif. — After weeks of speculation that his job was in jeopardy, Willie Randolph finally got fired by the New York Mets while most fans were sleeping.
Randolph became the first manager in the major leagues to be fired this season, let go in the middle of the night Tuesday, 2 1/2 months into a disappointing season that has followed the team’s colossal collapse last September.
“I’m really stunned by it,” Randolph said as he left the team’s hotel shortly before noon.
Bench coach Jerry Manuel takes over on an interim basis. Pitching coach Rick Peterson and first- base coach Tom Nieto also were cut loose.
Dodgers’ Penny on DL.
The Dodgers put right- handed pitcher Brad Penny on the 15-day disabled list because of a sore shoulder.
Soriano awaiting hand exam.
Cubs left fielder Alfonso Soriano will have his broken left hand re- examined Friday and hopes to return before the all-star break next month.
Stiff back shelves Colon.
Red Sox right-handed pitcher Bartolo Colon was placed on the 15-day DL because of a stiff lower back.
Konerko sidelined.
White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko landed on the 15-day DL with a strained left oblique muscle.
Indians sign Ensberg.
Former all-star third baseman Morgan Ensberg signed a minor-league contract with the Indians.
The Associated Press
