Fred Wilpon Learns From His Mistakes. Kind Of.

Mets owner Fred Wilpon finally realizes that the early morning firing of Willie Randolph could have been handled better. The long-time Mets' executive told SNY that he "screwed up" and, should a situation like that arise again, the next managerial shit-canning will be done before press deadline.

"I said (to Omar Minaya) 'When are you going to do this?' He said 'After the game (Mets-Angels, June 16).' I wasn't smart enough to say, 'And cut the New York press out of it?' I didn't even think of it,"

Wilpon also admits his wasn't pleased with how he and the organization were crucified for it. "...For two weeks you beat the (shit) out of us - personally," Wilpon said. "Jeff (Wilpon), me, Omar. We didn't like it, but okay. It's part of the territory. You learn from it." Willie Randolph must be thrilled that his ruthless axing prompted Wilpon's epiphany about being much more respectful toward the press. Fred Wilpon: I Screwed Up Willie Randolph's Firing [NYDN]