truebluefan

There is a theory floating about that Felipe Alou and the Giants have reached an understanding about next season, that he will be kicked upstairs and a new manager will be chosen. Not true, Alou said Saturday. He has not discussed his future with the higher-ups and, moreover, he increasingly sounds like he would be content to become a full-time fisherman the minute this season ends.

"I'm really thankful for the Giants having me manage the team for so long," Alou said. "It was a tremendous opportunity for me to get to 1,000 wins, to watch Barry Bonds and now see Matt Cain. But the day is going to come when I'm going to go back home to Florida.

"It has been a great run, getting close to winning despite a lot of setbacks the last two years because of so many injuries."

Alou did not announce his retirement, but stated clearly that once this season ends he will be a free agent just like the 11 free agents who play for him, and that his return will depend as much on his desire to come back as the Giants' desire to extend him. Neither of those is a sure bet.

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