Mets Today

Brian Lawrence told reporters yesterday he would like to work out with the club this weekend in Shea, but there seems to be a question if Lawrence can work out with the Mets because he is signed to a minor-league contract and is not a member of the 40-man roster.

“We are getting clarification [from MLB] on that,” GM Omar Minaya said. “He wants to throw a bullpen in front of The Jacket [Rick Peterson] if that’s possible.”

If MLB rules Lawrence can’t work out with the team, he could travel to Port St. Lucie a few days early and work out at the Mets’ minor-league complex.

Depending on how quickly he can build up his arm strength, Lawrence could make his season debut with the New York Mets at Dolphin Stadium against the Marlins, and that’s fine with Manager Willie Randolph.

“It’s going to be a circus anyway. It doesn’t really matter,” Randolph said yesterday of the May 25-27th series. “Wherever it falls, it’s going to fall.”

[ This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs, nor is it in any way related to the truth. ]

Just when all the hoopla surrounding Sunday’s emotional announcement was beginning to taper off, Brian Lawrence finds himself back in the spotlight, as his signing with the the New York Mets was made official on Wednesday.

According to manager Willie Randolph, Brian Lawrence will report to extended spring training and is expected to throw a bullpen session Tuesday in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

“From there a decision will be made when he’ll pitch a game,” Randolph said. “We’re not targeting a particular team for him. We’re not rushing him to be ready for a certain team. When he’s ready, we’ll pitch him.”

Pitching coach Rick Peterson added, “He’ll be on a strict, 75-80-pitch count when he returns.”

Check back here at MetsToday, as we’ll be keeping everyone updated on the big righthander’s progress and eventual return to Major League Baseball.