Mets Offer Murray Two-Year Deal

Eddie Murray, frustrated in his attempts to obtain a multiyear contract from the Dodgers, was offered one by the New York Mets on Thursday, New York sources said.

Murray, a free-agent first baseman who has averaged 22 home runs and 93 runs batted in during three seasons with the Dodgers, has told teammates he would be willing to play in New York, despite the media attention he dislikes.

Although the Mets would not comment on the offer, said to be for two years and worth about $6 million, Met General Manager Al Harazin professed his attraction to Murray in published reports last week.

Fred Claire, Dodger vice president, seemed firm about his unwillingness to offer Murray, 35, more than a one-year contract. Claire does not want to impede the progress of top minor leaguers Eric Karros and Henry Rodriguez.