"Gary Sheffield is stuck with the Mets, so he might as well make the most of it.

The disgruntled outfielder yesterday pledged allegiance to his team, a day after asking out of the starting lineup because he wasn't happy about an afternoon meeting with general manager Omar Minaya in which the 40-year-old Sheffield's future -- or lack thereof -- with the organization was discussed.

Sheffield, who went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts in the Mets' 4-2 victory over the Phillies last night, said he never asked specifically for a contract extension, but didn't deny he wanted confirmation from the Mets that he's part of their 2010 plans. This after Sheffield was recently placed on waivers but pulled back after Minaya couldn't strike a deal with the team that claimed him, reportedly the Giants.

Sheffield asked to be released during his meeting with Minaya, but will not be granted his wish.

"If a team wants to claim a player and not give us what we feel is value for the player, I still have a responsibility to the manager and the players that are here to win as many games as possible," Minaya said. "