Jose

Mesa

Mesa may not have big save numbers this year (19), but that’s not entirely his fault. The Phillies, despite having the third-best record in the NL, have only given him three save opps since June 9. He did pick up his fifth win Saturday.

“I don’t mind and I don’t care because I am not going to the Giants,” he said. “I already made up my mind a long time ago. I’m not going nowhere. If they trade me, whatever team picks me up is in trouble because I’ll go home.” It looks like Mesa will spend the rest of the season as Pittsburgh’s closer.

Cubs GM Jim Hendry said he did not have much interest in Mesa, despite rumors that the Cubs and Pirates tried to work out a deal.

Mesa earned $800,000 in base salary and $465,000 in incentives in 2004. He’ll be seeking a raise, but the Pirates probably aren’t offering him too much of one.

Mesa’s $2 million-$2.5 million contract apparently will include an option for 2006.

Torres’s deal likely will be announced today. Mesa’s contract hasn’t yet been finalized.

They also appear close to signing Chris Truby to a minor league contract. Mesa probably wouldn’t close for the Pirates if signed. Harnsich, coming back from Tommy John surgery, would ba candidate for the fifth spot in the team’s rotation.

''Sandy Alderson assured me appropriate action will be taken,’' said GM Mark Shapiro. ''I have no idea what that means.’' It probably means either a fine or a suspension.

The Phillies actually have a pretty good bullpen when they aren’t overworked. Oddly enough, Mesa (5.91 ERA) and Mike Williams (6.11), the top two in line for saves, have inferior statistics to guys like Rheal Cormier (1.36), Turk Wendell (1.99), Terry Adams (2.38), Carlos Silva (4.74), and Dan Plesac (1.54). Bowa said the committee approach will last a couple days, perhaps longer. Mesa remains the favorite for saves in the long run, but Williams might see some opps over the next week, as may the others, many of whom have experiences closing.

Manager Larry Bowa said Mesa looked better than his last bullpen session, but still needs work. Bowe does not expect Mesa to pitch in the series against the Rockies. Mike Williams remains the favorite for saves with Mesa working things out, but opportunities could realistically fall to a number of Phillies’ relievers.