October 4, 200421 yr MIAMI -- It crossed Mike Lowell's mind on Sunday that he may be suiting up as a Marlin for the final time. The three-time All-Star third baseman was given the final game of the season off, and there is a chance he may not be back. Essentially, Lowell's future is attached to a stadium clause that has a Nov. 1 trigger date. Simply, if the Marlins have a plan for a new park in place by the first of next month, the final three years of the contract Lowell signed last fall kicks in. If not, Lowell has a player option where he can stay for 2005, earning $7.5 million. Or he could elect to test the market as a free agent. General manager Admin Beinfest said the organization faces tough decisions on a number of players. The budget for next year hasn't been set, but some parameters by owner Jeffrey Loria should be given in a week or so. Beinfest said he plans on talking with Lowell soon regarding next season. As for the stadium, Loria said: "I'm extremely hopeful we will get this thing done. We need to get it done, sooner, rather than later." In the three seasons since Loria assumed ownership, the Marlins have boasted their first back-to-back winning seasons, including the World Series title in 2003. Loria said the team deserves a new facility. lowell article of marlins.com
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