05/02/2002

BOSTON -- Not everything is hunky-dory in every corner of the Red Sox clubhouse.

Mercurial Rickey Henderson is unhappy with his sporadic playing time, and he hinted after last night's win that he'd like to play for another team if he doesn't get into more action soon.

"I'm a little frustrated," said Henderson, 43, a 23-year veteran who has appeared in 10 of the team's 24 games.

"If I don't do much the next couple of days, I might as well help someone else," said the Hall-of-Fame bound Henderson, who holds major league records for stolen bases, walks and leadoff homers.

The Red Sox have today off. Tomorrow they will open a four-game set on the road against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

Does Henderson plan to be with the Sox?

"Friday, yeah. Saturday, you might not see me. I'll have to see what the organizational plan is for me," said Henderson, who is hitting .281 with one homer, one RBI and one stolen base.

Henderson is aware that manager Grady Little is trying to find playing time for everyone. And the team is off to a 17-7 start, which happens to be the best winning percentage in the majors.

"I know he's trying to get everyone in. But I'm tired of sitting," said Henderson.

Little said he was unaware of Henderson's displeasure, but planned to talk to him.

--STEVEN KRASNER