Omar Minaya Tells Twins “I’m Not Getting Rid Of Jose Reyes.”

That is why I always say, "In Omar We Trust."

Like I said in my previous post, Omar Minaya is to smart a general manager to trade an everyday superstar shortstop for a starting pitcher, even one as great as Johan Santana. (see post below)

In a great article by Joel Sherman of the NY Post, Joel shared some great quotes that Omar Minaya made regarding the Johan Santana negotiations. I’m just going to give you some of what was written, but make sure you read the full article because it is a great read.

“I like going after the big fish, but I can’t rob Peter to pay Paul," Omar Minaya said by phone. “I’m not getting rid of Jose Reyes."

That Minnesota was still asking for Reyes likely means the Twins do not believe the Mets have enough attractive options among their prospects to make a deal.

The Mets’ pitching prospects are not viewed as generously around the majors with Mike Pelfrey and Phil Humber regressing last year. However, Minaya defended them.

“I have two 15-game winners (John Maine, Oliver Perez) that other teams gave up on," Minaya said. “If young guys have high-end arms and good deliveries, you have to ignore the stats on occasion. Pitching goes up and down. (Matt) Garza took a step back this year in some people’s eyes, and Tampa just traded for him (as part of the Young trade)."

Minaya said he is prioritizing finding a No. 1 starter.

“We would like to be able to get it if we can," he said. “But I do hate to give up young players. I would prefer doing major league player for major league player in a trade. That might not be possible. But you know me, if I had to pay a little more to get a premium guy, I would. But I won’t go crazy, though."

I hope that Joel’s article will curtail some of the crazy notions out there that are swirling around the Mets blogosphere. I am glad that Omar was so candid and ended his remarks by saying he will do his best, but he wouldn’t do anything crazy. Those are exactly the words I wanted to hear from our GM.