Mets GM defends late-night firing

0 Comments | USA TODAY, June, 2008 | by Bob Nightengale

New York Mets general manager Omar Minaya vigorously defended his decision to fire manager Willie Randolph late Monday night, a move that drew harsh rebukes from the New York news media.

Minaya, who promoted bench coach Jerry Manuel to manage the rest of the season, said he didn't make his mind up to fire Randolph until the team had traveled cross country to Los Angeles.

He fired Randolph at the hotel after a 9-6 win against the Los Angeles Angels, with the news announced at 3:18 a.m. ET Tuesday.

"I know the perception is the way that it was handled, it was disrespectful," Minaya said. "The reason it was handled quickly was out of respect for Willie. It was done quick.

"I don't believe in firing a manager at the game in uniform. That...