Collins gets texts, praise from NFL's Coughlin

CHICAGO -- Turns out Major League Baseball's oldest manager is text buddies with the National Football League's oldest head coach. Sort of.

New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday that he has texted Terry Collins multiple times during the Mets' postseason run, though Collins has only replied once.

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"He's a little busy, I think," Coughlin joked with reporters at Giants practice.

While that may be true with the Mets in the midst of a National League Championship Series against the Cubs, it's not the reason why most of Coughlin's texts have gone unanswered.

"He called me when we won the division, congratulating me," Collins said. "I tried to return the call, but it's like getting through to the President when you call the Giants. So I didn't get through. But I left a message that I appreciated it, and I appreciate the text. I know he's busy and extremely respectful, because I think a lot of him. I've watched him coach for a long time, and he kind of reminds me of me, to be honest, so I appreciate the effort."

Coughlin, 69, is no stranger to playoff runs, having won two Super Bowls during a 20-year coaching career. While Collins, 66, is also a lifer, he is participating in the postseason for the first time as a manager.

"I don't know Tom at all," Collins said. "I've never met him. But I'm extremely impressed he would take the time. He's got a lot going on on his plate right now."