But unlike Piazza, Williams chose not to engage in contract discussions after spring training began.

Willie Sawyers re-signs on a new one year deal after original contract discussions had broken down.

On the labor front, the basic agreement with the players union expires this week, and contract discussions have yet to ensue.

But Lacroix said there would be no contract discussions until summer.

The following day, contract discussions continued, but he remained steadfast on his decision and went two months without featuring in a competitive match.

Top company executives do not usually participate in contract discussions until the final stages.

His staff also said there was no connection between the conciliatory modification of the Rainbow Curriculum and contract discussions.

Watson will not reopen contract discussions this season and said he was prepared to go to arbitration again with Williams next season.

But there won't be any more contract discussions.

Frank Cashen, a man of considerable reserve, did not appreciate seeing the contract discussions go public.