Yankees meet, but decision on Torre's future still on hold

October 17, 2007|Associated Press

Joe Torre's future with the Yankees remained unclear yesterday after team officials gathered at owner George Steinbrenner's home in Tampa to debate whether the manager should return for a 13th season.

"The meetings are adjourned for tonight," spokesman Howard Rubenstein said shortly after the session ended about 4 p.m. "There have been no decisions made, nor will there be any comment today. The meetings will resume tomorrow."

The owner's sons, Hank and Hal, were seen at the house, along with son-in-law Felix Lopez. Yankees president Randy Levine, chief operating officer Lonn Trost, general manager Brian Cashman, and assistant general manager Jean Afterman also were in town.

If Torre doesn't return, bench coach Don Mattingly is the leading contender to take over. The Star-Ledger of Newark reported yesterday that Mattingly told a member of the Steinbrenner family he does not feel ready for the manager's job and would be uncomfortable with replacing Torre.

Ray Schulte, a spokesman for Mattingly, said the report was "completely false, totally fabricated, and took Don completely by surprise."

Reagins takes reins

Bill Stoneman stepped down as general manager of the Angels, saying he wanted to spend more time with his wife, Diane. He was replaced by player development director Tony Reagins.

The 63-year-old Stoneman, who will remain with Los Angeles as a senior adviser, became the Angels GM in November 1999. After making the playoffs only three times previously, the Angels advanced to the postseason four times under Stoneman. They won their only World Series championship in 2002.

Reagins joined the Angels as an intern in 1992 and was the organization's player development director for the past six years. Reagins said the job carries "extreme responsibility, and I'm ready for the challenge."

"I've known Tony since coming on the job here," Stoneman said. "This is one of the brightest, most energetic and dedicated guys I know. He's able to get things done."