The meeting wasn’t designed to unveil grand schemes or finalize answers on job status. It was important for one reason: It was the first chance for the Nationals new owners, and decision-makers, to meet those whose futures they’ll determine.
New owners Ted Lerner and his son, Mark, and president Stan Kasten, along with other investors, met with players and later the front office before Wednesday’s game. Kasten did most of the talking and others, such as new executive vice president Bob Wolfe, were introduced.
“It was a quick meet-and-greet,” Nationals shortstop Royce Clayton said. “[But] I’m just here trying to win games.”
Kasten told the players he hoped the ownership would be approved in about three to four weeks. Until then, Major League Baseball has final approval on any moves.
And he later told reporters he won’t rush into any decisions on front office jobs. He does plan on meeting individually with manager Frank Robinson.
“I have no expectations of coming in here and letting people go,” Kasten said. “I’m assuming everyone here is competent and worthy of their job. Until I learn otherwise, that’s my starting point.”
Kasten said he won’t make trades or personnel moves, leaving that to general manager Jim Bowden. But he is involved in getting more games on local television.
“A lot is being done in private,” he said. “Someday we’ll get there. As I’ve told everyone it would be smart if we got there now since we’re going to be there sooner or later anyway. It’s much better todo this on our own without the intervention of third parties.”
