Should Mets, Terry Collins Demote Struggling Closer Frank Francisco?
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) -- Mets manager Terry Collins admitted after Sunday's stunning loss to Miami that he's "concerned" about his new closer.
But Collins wasn't about to make a decision on Frank Francisco in the heat of the moment.
"I've got eight options -- or however many guys are down there," Collins said. "But I'm not going to address that right now. Emotions are running a little high and that's not a very good time to make a decision."
Giancarlo Stanton hit a two-out grand slam to cap a rally by the Marlins, who scored six times in the ninth to beat an angry Francisco and the Mets 8-4.
"He's the boss," Francisco said of Collins possibly making a change at closer. "He can do whatever he wants. I'm here to help the team. I guess I'm not doing that. Whatever decision he makes, it's fine with me. But I'm here to fight. Whenever I can, I'm going to try to do my best out there every time I go out."
The Marlins trailed 4-2 when Emilio Bonifacio led off the ninth with his second triple of the game against Francisco (1-3). John Buck walked and pinch-hitter Greg Dobbs followed with an RBI single.
Francisco was then replaced, and he headed slowly toward umpire Todd Tichenor, hollering as he approached. The big right-hander was ejected even though he was already out of the game.
Collins stepped between Tichenor and Francisco, who waved his finger and then his cap at the ump before finally heading to the dugout.
"I expect him to say something (about my pitches), like they are low or high or away. Give me a reason," Francisco said. "But he said nothing."
All eight Miami runs came against the Mets' bullpen. Francisco's ERA rose to 8.56, and now his status is in question because of a possible suspension or demotion from the closer's role.
Mets fans have even started the comparisons to former shaky closer Armando Benitez.
Collins said he'll wait until Monday to decide whether bullpen assignments should change.
"Right now is not the time to have a conversation with anybody," he said.
Mets fans, do you think it's too early to give up on Francisco? Sound off below...
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