By WFAN.com
One of the finalists for the Mets' general manager job is defending himself against allegations of conflicts of interest.
Agent Brodie Van Wagenen, the co-head of CAA's baseball division, is the most outside-the-box candidate in the running to lead the Mets' front office.
However, some other agents are expressing concerns about Van Wagenen's interest in the job.
MORE: Reports: Mets Narrow GM Search Down To 3 Candidates
Van Wagenen's client list includes Mets players Yoenis Cespedes, Jacob deGrom, Todd Frazier and minor leaguer Tim Tebow. If he took the Mets' job, Van Wagenen would obviously have to give up his clients but that would not eliminate all concerns, some say.
Super agent Scott Boras told the New York Post that players often tell their agents personal information they expect to remain confidential.
"If I went to work for a different employer, I would have to divulge all that information because I have to do my job for that other employer I made a commitment to," Boras said.
Boras added that he has received offers from teams in the past but turned them down over conflict-of-interest concerns.
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Another unnamed agent told the Post that, if hired, Van Wagenen would bring information "to the other side" that he learned of from participating in the MLB Players Association meetings.
Van Wagenen issued a statement through the Mets saying:
“In my role as an agent, my solution is to create opportunities for players to be successful both on and off the field. By creating partnerships between players and teams, the interests of all parties can be aligned. If the players are able to reach their peak potential, the fans will be rewarded with a competitive team that can contend for championships year in and year out. The Clubs benefit with compelling, sustainable and profitable entertainment franchises; and the players are rewarded with a platform to realize their childhood dreams while receiving compensation consistent with their tremendous talents.
“My conversations with the Mets continue to be organic. I believe baseball is better when the Mets are competitive and successful. That success is better for the fans, players, and the economy of the sport. As Jeff and Fred (Wilpon) continue their search for a new head of baseball operations, the players, fans and entire organization will be motivated to have a leader with the skills and commitment to win. If the Wilpons believe I am that person, we will have that conversation.”
Former Brewers and Rangers GM Doug Melvin and Rays Vice President of Baseball Operations Chaim Bloom are reportedly the other two finalists to replace Sandy Alderson.