Russell Knew Job Was Dangerous

Bill Russell is relaxing and reflecting these days, and moving on quietly.

Russell was fired as Dodger manager June 21 because the team didn’t meet expectations, and he accepts responsibility for the situation.

“I was with the organization for 32 years, and you just don’t forget that,” Russell said. “[Being fired is] part of the game, and the reality of seeing it happen to other people, I knew it could happen to me.”

Russell has contacted friends throughout baseball, seeking jobs for next season. For now, he’s traveling with his wife, Susan, and trying to pick up the pieces.

“There have been a lot of nice letters and a lot of phone calls, and that means a lot,” he said. “I don’t know what’s going to happen, I’ve never been in this situation before, and I’m just going to hope something good happens in the future.”

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The agent for Jeff Shaw said the pitcher might exercise his right as a player traded with a multiyear contract and demand to be traded at the end of the season.

“It’s far too early to make that determination, but we recognize the availability of that process,” Joe Bick said. “And you’ve got to consider all options.”

The Dodgers acquired Shaw last Saturday from the Cincinnati Reds for Paul Konerko and Dennis Reyes. Shaw, who makes $650,000 this season, signed a three-year contract extension in April that pays him $2.8 million annually, and his salary could increase to $3.5 million annually for the final two seasons because of a performance-based bonus.

But even at the higher salary, Shaw’s deal is considered below market value for a premier closer. He accepted less money to remain with the Reds because he makes his year-round home in Cincinnati.

If Shaw, 32, demands to be traded, the Dodgers would have to trade him by March 15 or he would become a free agent. The risk for Shaw in becoming a free agent is that his contract would be voided.