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Michael Bloomberg, Mets Owner? Billionaire Mayor Not Interested

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/ AP) — As a billionaire, Mayor Michael Bloomberg could afford to buy the Mets. But that's one job that he's not looking to step into after he leaves City Hall.

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The mayor was asked by a reporter on Wednesday if he'd be interested in buying the team.

"Look the Mets are fun and I like going, I think Citi Field turned out fine," he replied, according to the New York Observer. "Why anybody wants to own a sports team, I can't figure out."

Bloomberg said he already faces tough scrutiny from the press without owning a team.

"I like the Wilpons. They are nice people," he added. "I've known the family for a while. I wish them -- hopefully they work themselves out of their fiscal problems. I like to go and I like to have a beer, and some popcorn and enjoy."

The Mets have been in financial turmoil following three seasons of losing records at Citi Field and a lawsuit filed by the trustee seeking to recover money for victims of the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme.

A trial is scheduled for next month; the trustee is seeking $386 million.

A $200 million minority ownership deal with hedge funder David Einhorn fell through in September. The Mets are now trying to sell smaller shares of the franchise at $20 million apiece.

Do you think Mayor Bloomberg would make a good franchise owner? Sound off in the comments below...

(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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