Larkin thinking retirement instead of leaving Reds

Larkin also has spoken to friends at ESPN about job possibilities and has talked to other teams about a front-office job, something that has been his goal after retirement.

"I've been talking to other organizations about possibly doing something in the front office or doing something with the players on the field," Larkin said. "But until anybody makes a firm offer, I can't say what it is."

His dream is to work in the Reds' front office, something that's not an option for now. Larkin and chief operating officer John Allen clashed over a take-it-or-leave-it contract offer late in the 2003 season, and Larkin was prepared to leave then. The team reconsidered and negotiated a one-year deal for 2004.

Larkin, who was the Reds' captain, still hopes to work in their front office someday. It's unlikely he'll get the chance until there's a change in management.

"I'm OK," he said. "I'm not beat up about it. I don't have any bad feelings. I feel great about the organization."

So great that he can't bring himself to play for another one.