Mets sign Coste

The Mets have signed Chris Coste to what appears to be a guaranteed minor league contract, similar to what Cory Sullivan recieved last year. Coste will be added to the 40 man roster making it easier to be recalled if he doesn't make the team out of spring training, plus he earns time towards the pension. With reports that the Mets are close on Blanco as the back-up in the majors, Coste will more then likely serve as a mentor in Buffalo to Santos and Thole both of which showed solid bats but need to work on their defense...

Mets sign Chris Coste .. will be added to 40 man roster source Joe DeMayo twitter

Blanco to back-up at catcher ?

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Mets are in discussion with Henry Blanco to sign as the back-up catcher. Blanco is a 38 y/o career back-up catcher who is known as a weak hitter ( .223 lifetime BA ) but an excellent defender and for his career he has thrown out 40% of base runners.

The Mets have a back-up catcher in Omir Santos who was just named to the all rookie team, which makes the pursuit of Blanco a bit odd. If the report is accurate and it happens, here are a few senerios.

1. The Mets don't believe Omir will repeat and since he has options they will tuck him away in AAA.

2. They are promoting Santos to the starters position with the veteran Blanco as his back-up/mentor.

3. Omir is part of a package in a trade.

4. They plan to carry three catchers next year.

Blanco, 38, would serve in his usual backup role. The Mets also are looking for a starting catcher, and free agent Bengie Molina is believed to be their leading target. source Fox Sports

Cora close to returning...

Reports indicate that the Mets are close to a deal for Alex Cora, if the reports are accurate it's a one year deal for 2MM with a vesting option for the second year.

Look, I'm not going to make a big deal about this but 2MM for a weak hitting middle infielder with limited range seems expensive. I know he's a great clubhouse guy and the Mets think he's basically a coach on the field but they could have spent half as much on an all glove no bat guy like Wilson Valdez for the bench.

With that said, as long as Cora isn't over exposed he will be an assent off the bench he did hit .417 as a pinch hitter and can field both the SS/2B positions.

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, former Red Sox infielder Alex Cora is close to a one-year deal with a vesting option for second with the New York Mets. The deal, which would guarantee the 34-year-old the same $2 million he made in ‘09 during at least the initial year of the contract, is expected to be finalized upon Cora passing a physical. source WEEI

Nieve back in action...

I'm not exactly sure what we have in Fernando Nieve, is he another reclamation project who shows flashes of talent only to eventually under achieve or a savvy steal who only needed to be afforded a decent chance.

Fernando Nieve was a highly touted prospect in the Astros farm system ( #5 prospect), he was one of the players Houston was praised for finding in there so called Venezuelan pipeline. The Hard throwing Nieve was known to hit 99mph in the minors prior to TJ surgery, after which he struggled with control and the Astros appeared to grow impatient with him. For more on his back ground check out this post.

Prior to designating him for assignment the Astros saw him as a reliever and possible closer, in winter ball ( 2009) he closed seven games in nine opportunities. The Mets use him exclusively as a starter going 3-1 in eight starts in the minors ( AA/ AAA) with a 4.22 ERA and then 3-3 with a 2.95 ERA in seven starts in the majors.

Nieve lost his season to a leg injury on July 20th but on Saturday night he returned to action in the winter league, going two innings in which he allowed two hits while striking out four without allowing a walk or run ( box score).

While still under control through arbitration he's out of option, so he'll have to make the team out of spring training. I think he might be more suited for the pen, he could end up being a longman /spot starter.

Ollie for Pierre ?

Before I begin, this is pure speculation on my part not a rumor or sourced information nor am I approving of the idea, based on the LA Times article I sourced below I'm throwing this idea out there for Mets fans to discuss during this extremely slow start to free agency...

The Dodgers are rumored to be in the market to trade Juan Pierre, the Mets are said to value defense and speed. While Pierre isn't the player he was when he broke in with the Marlins he still is a fast player who covers a lot of ground in the field and on the base path.

The 32 y/o left hander is a consistent .300 hitter, last year he had a career low in stolen bases with 30 but just two years ago he swiped 64 bases. Pierre is owed 18MM and the Times says the Dodgers are looking to find a team with a similarly bad contract on a back-end of the rotation starter.

Does Ollie and his 24MM contract fit that description or do you still believe that he will finally figure out how to properly use that golden arm of his. Even if you don't have any faith in Ollie ( which I don't) would Pierre be a good fit for this team. Left field wouldn't be a power position, meaning they would have to obtain someone at 1B or 2B to supplement the power void that was all too evident last season....

In the end while I'd love to move on from Ollie in the worst way, because I don't feel he'll ever live up to his potential, I don't think Pierre is a match for this team...

The Dodgers are expected to explore the possibility of dealing fourth outfielder Juan Pierre for an overpaid back-of-the-rotation pitcher in a trade that would essentially amount to a swap of bad contracts. Pierre is owed $18.5 million over the next two seasons. source LA Times

Sheffield wasn't used properly ?

I've been very busy the past few days, so in case you missed this I couldn't over look the opportunity to pass this along.

Let me get this straight, the guy who after realizing he wasn't getting a contract extension and wasn't being traded then tried to walk out on the team, is now complaining about playing time.

Even though Sheffield returned to the team I find it quite curious that his injury became so severe that he couldn't run down fly balls and had to ride the bench for the rest of the year.

Look when your 30 y/o and one of the best sluggers in the league you can afford to be a loud mouth. But when your 41 y/o and hanging on to fulfil your own personal goal (3,000 hit), you don't complain about being improperly used by a team that gave you a chance to play and then expect to get a contract the next year anywhere in the league...

Always confident, Sheffield believed the Mets would have benefited from using him more last season.

"There would have been nobody close to me in homers if I played every day," Sheffield said of the Mets, who were led by Daniel Murphy's 12 homers in 508 at-bats. source NY Post

Could this keep Guillen in line...

Listen if your argument against Jose Guillen is that his offense has declined, he's an injury risk and is too poor a defender, especially for what he will cost and what you'll have to pass up ( Holliday/Bay) to make him your left fielder, I can understand that argument.

But if you primary reason for dismissing him, is the baggage and what you perceive to be a clubhouse issue, I would dispute that with you. There is no doubt that Guillen is as cuddly as a cactus but as far as being a distraction or clubhouse cancer I can produce quotes from teammates, executives and coaches from his past five teams that support him.

In taking an in depth look at him he comes across as more of a Jeff Kent; fiery, out spoken, competitor who definitely rubbed some people wrong but was missed when he was gone compared to Milton Bradley who's behavior is just self destructive for himself and the team. ( if this rumor sparks up again I will post the collection of quotes I found).

But Guillen may have one of the biggest reason to be on his best behavior, his mother lives in NY. After all, even the worst kids are on their best behavior in front of mom...

"That's what I keep hearing from my mom. She lives in New York and it was in the paper, but you know what, my mind is to play for the Kansas City Royals this season and finish the last year of my contract there," Guillen said.

"But it's all business, and I understand the business side and some decisions need to be made. I'm not even thinking about it. If it happens, it happens. If not, I'm getting ready for the Kansas City Royals this year." source MLB.com

Barajas could be offered arby...

Another catcher who has been linked to the Mets is Rod Barajas, in fact it was reported, at one time that Barajas was their top choice. Since then it seems that Bengie Molina has surpassed him on the Mets wish list but he is still someone to keep an eye on. The Jays believe he will sign elsewhere but they may offer him arby anyway to obtain the draft pick as compensation for losing his services. Barajas is a type B free agent, so the Jays will be awarded a sandwich pick that will not effect the signing team...

The Toronto Blue Jays will almost certainly offer arbitration to Marco Scutaro and Rod Barajas, according to ESPN.com's Buster Olney. In today's blog entry, Olney applauds the work being done by GM Alex Anthopolous, who will secure the team three compensation picks if Scutaro and Barajas sign elsewhere, as is expected. source MLBTR

Is Hudson still Omar's choice if offered arby...

Tuesday is the deadline for teams to offer free agents arbitration, according to the Los Angeles Times it should be a no-brainer for the Dodgers to offer Orlando Hudson.

However, the Times goes on to say that it might not go that smoothly since the Dodgers may not want to risk Hudson accepting arby and them paying 8MM for a player who had clear communication problems with the manager.

If the Dodgers are so risk averse as to try to avoid the infinitesimal chance that Hudson would cost them another $8 million or so, that's a bad sign. Only good things can happen by offering Hudson arbitration source Los Angeles Times

Many believe Hudson is destine for the Mets this year, he grew up a fan of the team and practically begged them to sign him last year only to be blocked by their inability to move Castillo.

I'm a bit leery of Hudson, he cost 2MM more then Castillo and for the third year in a row was hurt down the stretch of the season, all while struggling to communicate with a manger known for being a great communicator and players manager.

"My teammates talked to me about it more than Joe did, but I never had any answers because (Torre) and I never talked," Hudson said. "There was no conversation."

Hudson said he thought that was strange, but didn't want to confront Torre about it. "I guess he felt I wasn't the man for the job if he wasn't putting me in there," Hudson said. "Everyone kept telling me to go talk to him. My mentor is Deion Sanders and he said I should go in there and talk, but I didn't want to be that guy. I didn't want to complain." source Daily Breeze

If you feel that it was Torre's issue and believe in Hudson your getting a gold glove second baseman and All-Star, then if the Dodgers offer arbitration and he declines does giving up a second round pick for him change your mind...

Mets one of eight interested in Saito...

First I'd like to thank Mike Silva for referencing me in his post on this subject at NYBD and acknowledge the excellent argument he makes in regard to this subject.

I will say this, I have been a fan of Saito's for a few years and completed this post on him last off season, but Saito is 40 y/o, has had a history of injuries and would be expensive...

But what the Mets learned in 2008 was that you need a back-up plan at closer in case of an injury, with J.J. Putz gone the Mets once again have untested players attempting to become the set-up man and eventually the closer...

Brain Stokes has 7 career saves, Pedro Feliciano 13 career saves, Sean Green 11 career saves and Elmer Dessens 11 minor league saves.

The Mets either need to bring in as many arms that could close as possible such as Kiko Calero (7 career saves) or sign a legitimate set-up man with closer experience like Saito ( 83 career saves)....

According to Sponichi, Takashi Saito has eight teams interested, including the White Sox, Cubs, Braves and Mets. The Braves had some interest in Saito way back in 2002 but he wound up remaining with Yokohama. source NPB Tracker

Mets not in on Torrealba

Despite rumors early on that the Mets would be interested in Yorvit Torrealba, I said it would be amazing for the Mets to schmooze their way back into Torrealba's good graces. It appears that maybe the Mets realized this and have bowed out of the competition for his services. While being rumored to be interested in ever available catcher, the Mets are one team not listed in regards to Torrealba...

Yorvit Torrealba has spoken primarily with the Rockies, Giants and Blue Jays, with the Rays, Royals and Marlins on the periphery. source Newsday

Rays talking to Zaun...

Gregg Zaun is a 38 y/o switch hitting catcher, he's been with nine teams in 14 seasons and holds a lifetime BA of .251.

In 1997 he won a World Series with the Florida Marlins as the backup to Charlie Johnson.

Not only is he older by catcher's standards but he's only good for about 80-90 games and I don't want to go into a season relying on Santos for 70 games.

While some see him as an inexpensive option, I hope the Mets pass and allow the Rays to renegotiate his contract.

The Rays have continued discussions with free-agent C Gregg Zaun, who has received interest from several other teams. source St. Petersburg Times

Will the Mets be interested in Scutaro for 2B

If the Mets do trade Louis Castillo they will then be left with a whole at 2B, most consider Orlando Hudson a lock for the spot.

But just as Hudson appears to be destine for Citifield, Marco Scutaro appears a lock for Boston, however; the Boston Herald speculates on who else could be interested in Scutaro.

The Herald speculates that if the Mets rid themselves of Castillo they may become interested in Scutaro. One incentive the Mets may have over other clubs in regards to any Type A free agents is that with the Mets first round pick guaranteed they can only lose a second round pick.

It was recently reported that the Blue Jays will offer Scutaro arbitration but that he will surely seek more then what he would recieve from arby ( source MLBTR).

The 34 y/o right hander is a lifetime .265 hitter with an OBP of .337 and an OPS of .721. he spent the first two years of his major league career as a weak hitting middle infielder with the Mets between 2002-2003 before being traded to the A's where he broke out to become a solid starter...

Scutaro is believed to be looking for a three-year deal, which could turn out to be about a year too long for the Red Sox, who hope 19-year-old Jose Iglesias grows into the role by 2012. But a third year for Scutaro in 2012 could work, given his positional versatility - he can play second and third base, as well - plus the uncertainty of exactly how smoothly Iglesias’ development will go. Scutaro’s positional versatility should help expand the pool of teams interested in him, with the Phillies, Dodgers, Mariners, Rockies and Mets (if they can trade second baseman Luis Castillo) among the logical suitors. source Boston Herald

Could Calero set-up

Of all the areas that the Mets need to address, the most stable is the pen, if the Mets are confident that one of Bobby Parnell, Brain Stokes and Sean Green can step up to be the set-up man, then they may only need a left handed specialist.

However, if they look outside of the organization for a set-up man a player they've been interested in before who has served as a set-up man maybe available at less then what most set-up men would cost.

In 2007 when the Mets were trying to put together a package for Dan Haren they wanted reliever Kiko Calero included in the deal.

Calero never became a Met but went on to join the Marlins in 2009, his return to the National League after four years in Oakland resulted in a 1.95 ERA in 60 innings with 69 SO and 30 walks.

The 34 y/o right handed reliever doesn't have the name value of other set-up men but in the NL he has had the performance, his first two major league seasons were in St. Louis in which he posted a 2.80 ERA in 80 innings.

It's being reported that the Marlins don't feel they can afford to bring Calero back and he will be looking for a new home as a free agent...

Among their top free agents, the Marlins are trying to re-sign Ross Gload but haven't made an offer to Nick Johnson and don't believe they can afford Kiko Calero. source Miami Herald

Closer look at Shoppach who might be available...

Since the Mets are in the market for a catcher, anytime I come across any information on an available catcher I pass it along.

I personally would rather see the Mets acquire a catcher through free agency and save their chips either for further development or bigger pieces they attempt to acquire. I just don't see the significant up-grade in players that can be traded for from those on the free agent market.

With that said I've heard a lot of Mets fans who feel just the opposite, they don't have faith in the older free agent catchers such as Molina, Barajas or Olivio. They would rather spend a couple nominal prospects for Snyder, Doumit and Shoppach.

Of the group of available catchers I've heard the most clamouring for Kelly Shoppach, the once highly touted Boston prospect has fallen from grace in Cleveland after struggling last season, meanwhile the team is in a rebuilding stage.

2008 was his first full year in the majors in which he hit .261 with 21 HRs but instead of building on those numbers this year he hit .214 with only 12 HRs. While the Mets haven't been linked to Shoppach it appears that anyone available where they have a whole is being looked at. Rotograph has an excellent article on Shoppach in which they explain his decline and predict what he will produce next year...

Shoppach was squeezed for playing time this season. Before some late season trades he was vying for playing time with Victor Martinez as the regular catcher and Ryan Garko at first base. Travis Hafner gobbled up DH time when his shoulder cooperated with him. Prior to the trades Shoppach would typically see playing time when Martinez played first base, Shoppach caught, and Garko hit the pine or saw time at designated hitter. Shoppach didn’t receive an ample opportunity to produce at the rate he did in 2008 until the trades of Garko and Martinez. source Rotograph

Are the Cubs out on Castillo...

After rumors swirled about the Mets and Cubs attempting to find a third team, so the Cubs could dump the volatile Bradley and the Mets could rid themselves of fan scapegoat Castillo, it appeared that the Cubs really wanted Castillo for 2B.

The Chicago Tribune has an article today in which it appears that the Cubs are moving on and making plans for 2B that don't include Castillo. Maybe Chicago realized they couldn't find another team to play in the land of misfit toys or maybe this is an attempt to push the Mets to make a move in another way between just the two teams.

* I don't necessarily feel the Mets need to move Castillo but I'm in the minority on this one, under no circumstances due I want the Mets to trade straight up with the Cubs Bradley for Castillo.

Apparently the Cubs are planning to give a single A rookie a chance of winning the short stop position in spring training while moving Theriot to 2B...

It's a long shot, considering Castro began the season in Class A last April and doesn't turn 20 until March 24. But the Cubs are so sold on his future that they already have told incumbent shortstop Ryan Theriot he might move to second base in the not-so-distant future. source Chicago Tribune

Mets should look at Duncan...

All I rem. of Shelley Duncan is a series of home runs when he first came up, the kid was so pumped he almost broke a couple guys forearms celebrating. Then the spring training spiking ( which I thought was an old school hard but clean play) of the Rays 2B. He came off to me as a hard nosed type of player with a lot of power, then he disappeared into the minor league system as the Yankees stacked their team with top flight free agents.

Duncan's time with the Yankees has officially come to a close, he was DFA and opted for free agency. For a team in need of a power hitting right hander who can play 1B or LF, at what he will cost, the 30 y/o would be worth a look. According to Mark Feinsand, the Daily News beat writer for the Yankees, he was never given a fair chance by the Yanks. he appeared in 68 games over three years and hit just .219.

If his AAA numbers are any indication of what he can be then Feinsand might be right, over 3 seasons in AAA he hit .271, OBP .368, Slg. .533 and OPS .906 while playing 319 games at 1B and 109 gms in the outfield.

I'm not willing to give him a major league deal but if he'll accept a minor league deal and a 40 man roster spot with an out if he doesn't make the team, he'd be a solid invitee...

Duncan never really got a chance to show he could play every day in the majors, but after watching him punish minor-league pitching this year - he won the International League's MVP award after hitting .277 with 30 homers and 99 RBI in 123 games for Scranton - I would hope that some team would give him a shot next spring. source Daily News

Daniel Cabrera looking for a home...

I've heard people refer to Daniel Cabrera as the right handed Oliver Perez, a ton of talent that always teasing teams into believing he's on the verge of a break out only to disappoint with his wildness.

Omar Minaya admitted last off-season he was keeping an eye on Cabrera's progress in winter ball. Between the D-Backs and the Nats, Cabrera went 0-6 with a 6.00ERA in 15 appearances ( 9 starts), he struck out 23 and walked 42 while hitters had a .285 BA.

His agent is looking for a deal that includes a 40man roster spot, presumably a minor league deal but with that roster spot he gets call-up consideration and service time.

I won't be surprised if we hear Omar's interested but I hope he passes...

Just talked with agent Michael Powers. He's looking for a 40-man roster spot for Daniel Cabrera. Big arm but a 6.00 ERA this year. source Jon Morosi twitter

Is Fernando Martinez on the block or not...

It would have to be an awfully big trade for the Mets to include top prospect Fernando Martinez. It was just three years ago that farm fans dreamed of an all home grown outfield, by 2010 they had hoped for a Milledge, Gomez, Martinez ( one of them coming off the bench with Beltran here) outfield roster. Things haven't worked out as planned, Gomez and Milledge have been traded and both are onto their third team. Martinez was the prize of the group but his progress has been stunted by injuries, F-Mart has not played an entire season in his pro career do to injuries.

Adam Rubin has a curious post that I'm struggling to interpret, most prospects are held out of winter ball if they're expected to be traded, so that they can't get injured before the trade goes down. Rubin reports that F-Mart says he was held out of games to insure he was fully healed prior to starting the winter league but is now playing. Rubin has a source that believes he may have been held out due to a possible trade, if that's the case and he's playing then the deal must be off.

However, with Fernando's injury history it could be just the opposite, whom ever is interested, might want to see him play to prove they're not dealing for damaged goods. His return to the field could be an audition for another team. I don't consider anyone untouchable but if F-Mart is part of the deal it better be for an All-Star caliber player...

I pressed our friend in the D.R. about the trade item he mentioned, and was told ...

A person close to the Escogido told me that the reason why the Mets delayed Martínez was because they were talking about trading him in the offseason. Mario Emilio Guerrero, Escogido´s press chief, was asked about the situation early last week and he didn´t want to confirm the rumor, but he didn´t deny it, either. Guerrero works on a popular radio program called La Voz del Fanático (Voice of the Fan) and the topic was debated. As you know, like Guerrero, an Escogido employee, didn´t want to confirm the rumors, neither did Escogido's general manager, former Mets player Moisés Alou. source Daily News

Wilson Valdez becomes a Philly...

I have to admit I was a big supporter of Wilson Valdez, he was a solid defensive back-up at 2B/SS and had a great arm. Valdez was an all glove no bat but I believe you need a defensive infielder like that in case of injuries or if you have a poor fielder, you can bring them in late in a game to hold the lead. Valdez was a defensive up grade over Argenis Reyes and Ramon Martinez and much cheaper then Alex Cora. Matt Eddy reports that Valdez has signed a minor league deal with the Phillies ( Baseball America).

Mets interested in Dessens returning...

Elmer Dessens is a 38 y/o right handed relief pitcher, who would best be described as a journeyman.

In 2009 the Mets signed Dessens to a minor league contract, it marked his 11th team in 13 seasons to include a stint with the Yomiuri Giants.

He began his career as a starter, making double digit starts for five straight seasons (2000-2004) but then began to make spot starts as a longman.

He's been used exclusively out of the pen since signing with the Mets and they began to use him as a closer in AAA, where he went 3-2 with 11 saves in 27 games and an ERA of 2.31.

As the season went on I thought they took too long to call him up and when they finally did he preformed solidly, in 28 gms. he posted a 3.21 ERA...

Apparently the two sides are discussing a contract for him to return...

The Mets remain interested in bringing back free agent right-hander Elmer Dessens. "We are talking," Dessens' agent, Oscar Suarez, said Wednesday. source Fox Sports

Molina is the Mets most clear & realistic target

Ken Davidoff takes a look at the Mets approach to this off-season, in which their keeping tabs on multiple free agents. It appears the Mets are determined to not sign a bad contract and as a result are targeting multiple players at the same position. In all Davidoff says the Mets really seem to have identified Molina for their vacant catching position...

Their most clear, realistic target appears to be catcher Bengie Molina, who intrigues the Mets considerably even though, as a Type A free agent, he'd cost the Mets their second-round draft pick. source Newsday

Overbay will be moved...

The Mets are in the market for a 1B and the first name this off-season they were linked to was Lyle Overbay. That three team deal has been long since shot down, however; Overbay is still believed to be available. The 32 y/o left handed 1B is a lifetime .280 hitter and known as a solid defender. Jeff Blair is reporting that he's being told there's a 90% chance Overbay gets moved at the winter meetings...

Had baseball guy with other organization tell me today he thinks Overbay 90 per-cent to be traded at winter meetings. source Jeff Blair Twitter

Jose Guillen would accept a trade...

Even Adam Rubin concedes that it's a far fetched idea for the Mets to trade Jose Guillen for Angel Pagan but someone got a hold of Guillen and ask for his thoughts.

Basically the Royals want to move Guillen and they've identified the Mets as a team they maybe willing to take him, reportedly they like Angel Pagan in return.

Guillen has a limited no trade clause but told Diario Libre he would waive his no trade clause for a trade to NY.

Here's Rubin's translation of Guillen speaking Spanish...

"If trading me would help the Royals, New York would be one of the clubs I would approve. ... I have just started a rigorous program of winter training in order to arrive in the best form possible for spring training. My mind is focused on having a great season next year and until now I believed that would be with the Royals. ... It would be a little unjust if they judge me for the statistics of this year, because the injuries did not allow me to play, but I have shown that when I am healthy I can produce a lot." source Daily News

Tigers want to move Edwin Jackson bad...

Jeff Passan takes a look at just how desperate the Tigers seem to be to move Edwin Jackson. The 26 y/o right hander was a first time All-Star had a break out season with Detroit in which he went 13-9 with a 3.62 ERA.

Of the tier of reasonable pitchers rumored to be available, Jackson would be my first choice, the hard throwing youngster has a ton of potential.

The Mets have been rumored to be interested in Jackson since he was a Dodger, hopefully they'll get invovled in a trade with the Tigers...

The level to which Detroit is foisting right-hander Edwin Jackson on anybody who will listen – “It’s like they want to give him away,” one executive said, “and I don’t really understand why” – is an indictment on the mismanagement that began showing cracks with Gary Sheffield last spring and has graduated to a full-fledged fault line. source Yahoo.sports

Fiery and effective catcher..

Rem. what an intricate part of the Mets Paul Lo Duca was in 2006, not only was he solid contributor on the field but he was also the emotional leader of the club. I know Lo Duca plans a comeback and while I wish him all the luck in the world, I hope it's not with us ( except on a minor league deal).

The Mets have been missing tht ingredient since Lo Duca left, no I'm not saying bring in a .200 hitter because he provides grit and fire but I am saying they miss a .280 hitter who provides grit and fire...

A.J. Pierzynski may just make both sides happy, the old school fire and brimstone types and the fantasy baseballer statisticians.

One of the most durable catchers in the league since becoming a starter in 2001 he has played at least 100 games per year and in eight of those nine seasons he's caught 128 or more. He also puts up some of the best offensive numbers in the league with a lifetime BA .286, OBP .326, Slg. pct .428 and OPS .754. Solid defender who pitchers like to throw too.

Of course, he comes with controversy a guy who wears his emotions on his sleeve is going to occasionally say the wrong thing and up set people but if he can produce on the field then those off the field incident become trivial.

The White Sox have allowed many of their long term veterans to move on, while I wouldn't call it rebuilding it's a little more then reloading. There's speculation that Pierzynski might be available as they have a young prospect behind him ready to come up in Tyler Flores and A.J. is on the last year of his contract ( worth 6.25MM)...

In just these somewhat early stages of the offseason, Pierzynski has watched veteran teammate Jermaine Dye have his ties severed with the White Sox and leadoff man Scott Podsednik possibly following down a similar exit path. The same situation transpired for Jim Thome and Jose Contreras back in September.

Questions to be answered for the White Sox, where Pierzynski's long-term employment is concerned, center on when Flowers, 23, will be ready for everyday catching duties, and in the interim, whether the South Siders will give Flowers a chance to work with Pierzynski as part of the Major League roster. Then again, it's hard to pass up a player possessing Pierzynski's intangible skills, even with a hard-hitting talent such as Flowers in the picture. source White Sox.com

Racap my take on the 1B market...

Since yesterday seemed to be the 1B rumor day, I thought it only be fitting that I try to recap the multiple players available for the position.

The Mets are rumored to be looking for a platoon partner for Daniel Murphy at the position, this plan serves two purposes, get a longer look at Murphy at 1B and not block Ike Davis in 2010...

I must acknowledge that I don't like the idea, I've seen enough of Murphy that I believe he is more a Miguel Cairo type player then a starter. What I would do is sign Adam LaRoche to a two year contract with a third year option, this would outbid Atlanta who is only willing to reportedly go one year. Murphy could become a solid bench player while Davis has a great mentor in 2010 to make the transition slower as Wright had with Wiggy. LaRoche is a solid defender and has legitimate power for the position. Despite the Mets interest in him at the deadline, there has not been even a hint of interest this off-season.

Here is a quick recap of the names we have heard...

It appears the Mets are going to keep a close eye on Carlos Delgado and may offer him a contract if he plays well in PR. I'm torn on Delgado, part of me feels the team needs to move on but on the other hand you can't duplicate his production if healthy.

Nick Johnson is an injury risk, who's defensive skills slip in the second half last year and doesn't provide enough power for the position. Despite not appearing to be a fit the Mets are listed as a team interested in Johnson.

Reportedly the Mets checked in with Russell Branyan, the 34 y/o, hit .222 against lefties and had a dreadful second half with 9 HRs, .193BA. I believe Branyan's first half was more of a career year then a break out.

Jack Cust was brought up yesterday and while he only has 17 minor league games at 1B, his outfield defense is so bad I could see an NL team attempt to convert him to 1B to get his power bat in the line-up. I think he belongs in the American league as a DH.

A rumor I didn't cover yesterday was the idea that teams ( unnamed) have inquired whether Jermaine Dye would play 1B. Matt at Metsblog has a great post on the rumor. I've always liked Dye and during all those rumors over the years I wanted it to happen, I just wonder if that window has past especially at his age and at a new position.

Audrey Huff has been rumored to be on the Mets wish list; if Huff is his 2008 version where he hit .308 with 32 HRs and 108 RBIs then any team would welcome him but the next year Huff hit just .200 with 15 HRs. Depending on his cost he might be the best available platoon partner.

Xavior Nady has been linked to the Mets since his short stint with the team in 2006, the X-man is coming off his second TJ surgery and won't be ready to start the season. His arm may not allow him to play the outfield, he has over 100 major league games at 1B which may turn out to be his full-time position. My only concern with Nady is when will he actually return to the field, we don't need a guy who's return date keeps getting pushed back.

Beyond the guys recently discussed, looking at the rest of the free agent list...

Hank Blalock was a rising star in Texas until injuries slowed his progress, but after two injury plagued seasons he returned last year healthy. Playing in 123 gms ( 66 gms at 1B) he hit 25 HRs with a .234 average. Blalock bats left and I don't see him as a full time candidate, he's also a big injury risk with a bad back.

If the Mets decided to go with leadership over offense then they could acquire Rich Aurilia and Kevin Millar ( I wouldn't go in that direction). They could also go for an all defense, great clubhouse guy in Doug Mientkiewicz but only do the Mets need offense but my understanding is Doug wasn't happy with the Mets in 2005. The of the free agent pool doesn't seem very appealing; Kevin Baker, Bobby Crosby, Jason Giambi, Brad Nelson, Nomar Garciaparra, Greg Norton, Jim Thole, Chad Tracy, Andy Tracy.

Now the non-tender list because of the economy could be where the gems of the off-season are found. This list is incomplete but here's a look at a few of the names being discussed, if I'm looking for strikingly a low cost right handed platoon partner for Murphy that player might come from this group and not the big name guys above...

One of the best fits no longer appears available as the Marlins will keep Jorge Cantu, the 3B/1B is right handed and has decent power.

Conor Jackson lost all of last year with something called Valley Fever, he has the highest upside but I'm not sure if anyone knows enough about his condition for him to be worth the risk.

I like the idea of bringing in Garrett Atkins now that he's going to end up being non-tendered his cost won't be an issue since he'll get paid off his struggles from last year. Atkins is a change of scenery candidate as the team was already moving on to Ian Stewart. Prior to last year he had four above average seasons and he has a significant amount of time at 1B.

Another solid candidate is Ryan Garko who had a miserable time in SF after a mid-season trade. Garko is a decent right handed hitter and fielder while he could serve as an emergency catcher.

The Mets could always bring back Mike Jacobs but the warts he had in 2005 he still has in 2009 and he's a left hander.

Finally Andy Marte is no longer the top prospect who spent an off-season being traded around the league in one big deal after another. The 3B/1B continues to tare up AAA and then struggle in the majors...

Mets checked in on Johnson

The Mets are also reported to have checked in on free agent 1B Nick Johnson. I really wanted Johnson last year at the deadline but moving forward I just don't think he meets our needs.

Johnson's assets are that he's an OBP and a solid defender, however; reports from Florida in the second half of the season were that his defensive skills were diminishing. After seeing this team attempt all last season to play the move the line along game where a multiple run inning took double digit hits I thirst for more power then what Johnson can provide.

More then anything Johnson is a huge injury risk which I believe will be what ultimately makes the Mets shy away...

The lefty-swinging Johnson, 31, hit .291 last year while splitting the season between the Nationals and Marlins. A former Yankee, Johnson has long been considered an injury risk. source NY Post

Looks like NL West is preparing for life after Molina...

The Giants expressed interest in retaining Bengie Molina on a one year low base salary contract, likewise the Rockies were looking to keep Yorvit Torrealba on a similar contract.

There seems to be indications that both teams are moving on to plan B.

With the Mets identifying Molina as their #1 catching target, they could have already scared off the Giants as they're now rumored to be interested in Torrealba.

Now that Torrealba could be returning to SF the Rockies are rumored to be looking at Brian Schneider (source MLBTR).

Molina is said to call a good game and keep things calm for a young pitcher, he has a solid bat but never walks and his knees are a concern; over all, he'd be a decent signing but not one without risks...

Conceivably, if the Giants signed Torrealba, their backup catcher from 2001-05, he would handle the bulk of the playing time until Posey developed sufficiently. Melvin Roman, Torrealba's agent, confirmed the Giants' interest. "They called and asked about him," Roman said Monday. "But as of right now I have no other comment." source MLB Blogs Giants

Branyan Career year or Break out...

Russell Branyan is a 33 y/o left handed hitting 1B, Branyan has bounced around the league since he was 22 y/o (1998). In 11 seasons he has played for nine different teams and only played 100 games in two of those seasons ( 2001/2002) before this year. In those two full time seasons he hit 20 HRs but since then he has been a career journeyman playing at most 90 games, hitting under 17 HRS and has a lifetime BA of .239.

But that all changed in 2009 with the Seattle Mariners where he played in a career high 116 games in which he hit 31 HRs while batting .250. Most of that power came against righties and in the first half of the season, Branyan batted .222 against lefties and only hit .193 with 9 HRs in the second half ( .280/ 22 HRs first half).

It's a good sign to see that Omar is checking in with every available player at every position the Mets need to get filled, in regards to Branyan he will get paid off 2009, but that team may only get the player from the prior nine years. Was last season the year Branyan figured it all out and became a late bloomer or was it simply a career year...

The Mets have called on Russell Branyan. source Tim Brown Twitter

Does Cust belong in the NL...

Adam Rubin speculates about Jack Cust, apparently the 30 y/o OF/DH is available and the A's are looking to move him before salary arbitration. He won't cost much in trade or contract and will provide 25 HRs and 100 walks but he is also only a .239 hitter with almost 200 strikeouts per season. Add to that, that he has an awful UZR in the outfield and has only played 17 minor league games at 1B and I think he belongs in the AL as a DH....

Cust, 30, who hails from Flemington, N.J., hit .240 with 25 homers and 70 RBI in 513 at-bats last season. He earned $2.8 million and should be dealt before the nontender deadline in less than three weeks, since Oakland does not want to pay the salary Cust would be awarded in arbitration, which may be in the $4-5 million range source Daily news

Will Castillo end up in Chicago...

I believe where there's smoke there's fire and it appears that Luis Castillo will end up a Chicago Cub. Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reported today that the Mets and Cubs are still looking for a third team for the Castillo/Bradley deal. This is the third time a rumor has involved these two teams and players. It was Fox Sports who first heard the rumor that Toronto could be the second team, then the Chicago tribune believed Texas maybe involved and while this latest rumor doesn't specify another team, the fact that the two sides are still linked tells me they're really trying to make this deal happen...

The Cubs' offseason will consist of trading outfielder Milton Bradley, finding a new center fielder and perhaps supplementing the bullpen. The team also could end up with Mets second baseman Luis Castillo, perhaps in a three-way deal involving Bradley. source Fox Sports

Mets inquire about Crawford...

NYBD reported just over a week ago that they had a source who informed them that Carl Crawford wasn't a happy camper in Tampa. According to their source Crawford was dissatisfied with the Rays failure to renegotiate a long term extension while picking up his 10MM option.

Joe Smith of Tampa Bay.com disputed the rumor with quotes from Crawford and his agent, Smith's response seemed unusually scathing towards NYBD.

Now Joe Smith in a section called trade winds is reporting an "industry source" has informed him that the Mets have inquired about Carl Crawford. I guess Mr. Smith un-named source is more credible in his eyes then Mr. Russo's ( not my fight, just seemed kinda ironic from the outside looking in)...

Onto Crawford, the 28 y/o left handed outfielder is a lifetime .295 BA and can steal over 50 bases a season. He is under contract only for 2010 in which he's owed 10M. Having Crawford and Reyes at the top of the line-up could be the best table setting tandem in the league. However, I think he will cost way too much in prospects to get a deal done, that is if Tampa even makes him available.

Mets and Braves have inquired about All-Star LF Carl Crawford. The Rays have said they're interested in discussing a long-term deal with Crawford, who is eligible to be a free agent after the 2010 season. source Tampa Bay.com

Mets like Sheets upside...

The Mets took a very long look at Ben Sheets last year, eventually they ruled him out over concerns with his throwing shoulder. They were right to be cautious as Sheets lost the entire season as he recovered from arm surgery.

The Mets have begun to discuss the possibility of adding Sheets, according to Newsday, with the idea of snagging what could be a bargain off the market. Sheets is arguably the most prominent free-agent starter left now that Derek Lowe signed with Atlanta, but his history of injuries has held down teams' interest pretty much all offseason. source Mets.com 1/18/09

Apparently Sheets should be 100% healthy come spring training and what had the Mets interested last year, makes him attractive again this off-season. The 31 y/o right hander is a four time All-Star with a lifetime ERA of 3.72. Seven of his eight major league seasons he has double digit wins but he has only pitched more then 30 starts only four of those seasons.

Johan and Big Ben would be a lethal 1-2 punch if they can keep Big Ben on the mound...

Sheets was one of the NL's best starters before elbow surgery; his agent, Casey Close, said Friday that Sheets is "progressing well from his flexor-tendon surgery in February and should be 100 percent by spring training."

One source indicated the team believes Sheets has more upside than other pitchers coming back from injury, such as Kelvim Escobar, Erik Bedard, Mark Mulder and Brett Myers. source Fox Sports

Another Guillen rumor

This is the third straight year that we've heard a rumor involving the Mets and Jose Guillen. The last two were revolving around an exchange of bad contracts, with Jose Guillen and Luis Castillo being exchanged. It's been reported at that time that the Royals backed off the idea...

But this time the Royals are looking for an inexpensive outfielder and are even willing to give back some of Guillen's money. According to Adam Rubin of the Daily News the Royals like Angel Pagan and are willing to given up a portion of the 12MM Guillen is owed for the season to get it done. If I can get a starting corner outfielder with power for a 4th outfielder I'm all for it...

Jose Guillen is a 33 y/o right handed corner outfielder, lifetime .272BA, .322 OBP and a .422 Slg. Pct. But since 2003 ( seven seasons) when he has been healthy, which was five of those seven seasons he has played in 135 gms., hit .289 and slugged at least 25 HRs or more.

However, in the other two years he was injured and barely produced at all 2006 he played only 69 gms., hit 9HRs and .216, while in 2009 he played in 81 gms. and hit 9Hrs while batting .242. Prior to 2003 he was extremely inconsistent and even he has been quoted as saying he needed to mature but five solid seasons in seven with the other two being a result of injuries not behavior is good enough for me.

Guillen has been involved in two pennant races 2003 and 2004. In 2003 he was traded mid-season to the Oakland A's in which he played 45 gms and hit .265, then in the playoffs he hit .455 in 11ABs in 4 games. In 2004 he played for the Angels in 148 gms. in which he hit 27 HRs and batted .292.

Over the last five years Jose has played in two pitchers parks in Washington and Seattle both of which he was still able to produce power numbers. In 2005 for the Nats (RFK stadium) he hit 24HRs, 32 doubles, 76 RBIs and batted .283 in 148gms. Then in 2007 with Seattle he hit .290 with 23 HRs, 99 RBIs and 28 doubles.

While his numbers were off in 2009 due to injuries in his first year with the Royals ( 2008) he hit .264 with 42 doubles, 20 HRs and 97 RBIs.

I've already been asked why I support bringing in Jose Guillen but would be adamantly against Milton Bradley. It's simple, Bradley's behavior has impacted the team and his performance, he has ostracized himself from the fans and his teammates. Creating an unproductive and intolerable situation where he has to be traded or cut..

Guillen on the other hand while some of his antics have become a distraction most of what he has done could be described as vocal leadership. The Nationals and Mariners both tried desperately to re-sign him. The Royals after a rocky start, settle into his personality as a team leader and are now only looking to move him for budgetary reasons. In Anaheim where he was benched for the playoffs because of comments he made about being pulled for a defensive replacement late in a game at the end of the season, a team that doesn't speak out against their manager players spoke up for Jose.

While he definitely comes with baggage for those who believe he's as bad as Bradley, I have some pretty convincing quotes in this post that he's not that bad...

The only true question for me as Rubin points out is whether Guillen can play full time or not, he seemed pretty effective in 2008...

The Royals want to acquire an inexpensive outfielder in return for Guillen, and are impressed with Angel Pagan despite his shortcomings. They'd be willing to eat money in a swap: Guillen is owed $12 million in 2010, the final season of a three-year, $36 million deal. One impediment would be the salary Kansas City would be willing to kick in probably isn't enough for the Mets to acquire Guillen in what sources say may be a frugal offseason - especially if Guillen is no longer a full-time player. source Daily News

A look at Inge another versatile player...

Jon Heyman added Brandon Inge to the list of players who could be made available by the Tigers.

Inge was exclusively a catcher in the minors and came up at that position in 2001, for his first three major league seasons as a catcher he hit .200. In 2004 the Tigers signed Pudge and Inge became a super sub playing in the outfield, 3B, and catching.

Brandon became good enough in the outfield that he filled in for Granderson in center when he was injured and then became the full time 3B when they moved Miguel Cabrera to 1B while still backing up at catcher.

In all he has 754 gms at 3B, 41 gms in the outfield ( 33 center) and 376 at catcher.

His lifetime BA is only .230 but last year he hit 27 HRs for the second time in his career and is good for at least 10 HRs per year.

The 32 y/o right hander is coming off his first All-Star appearance but he also had minor knee surgery. He's in the last year of his contract in which he's set to earn 6.6MM.

#tigers surprise sale: brandon inge may be available, as well as curtis granderson and edwin jackson, sources say source SI Jon Heyman Twitter

A closer look at the available #2's...

Here's a concern moving forward, unless the Mets are going to build an incredible offense to over compensate for a mediocre rotation they need a solid number two pitcher.

I Don't see the Mets signing Matt Holliday, Bengie Molina, Orlando Hudson, Garret Atkins ( for the bench) and trading for Adrian Gonzalez, so the rotation will need to be addressed.

As far as free agency, there is John Lackey who you will have to out bid several teams for and if you pass the next level of pitchers are exactly what we already have; John Maine, Oliver Perez and Mike Pelfrey in a very good year can be solid #2 pitchers but in an off year they are all #4's.

Behind Lackey is a group of good pitchers, who in their best years have been #2's and their worst years more like #4's; Jason Marquis, Joel Pineiro, Jon Garland, and Randy Wolf.

Of course, there is another group of free agent pitchers who are much better then the above group but are also much more of a risk and I believe after last year the Mets will steer clear of them despite the possible reward. They include Rich Harden, Ben Sheets, John Smoltz, Brad Penny and Eric Bedard.

Onto the trade front, the biggest name out there is Roy Halladay and it appears he will definitely get moved ( source MLBTR). I just don't see Omar parting with that many prospects or Jeff paying that much for two players, the Johan deal was their big move, I hope I'm wrong but I'd be very surprised if they're even serious players.

Here's a quick look at who else maybe available via trade...

The Marlins, Tigers, Indians, Reds are considered to be big sellers, while the Rangers, Astros, Padres, have been rumored to have financial difficulties. Of course, the Royals and Pirates always seem to have someone available and the Orioles are re-building. I'm not sure where the Rockies, Braves, Rays and Twins stand...

Some of these guys may never be made available while others may cost too much in prospects and there are probably a handful that I missed or never heard of, but one thing should be clear, for a buyer in this market there should be plenty of options...

Josh Johnson

Ricky Nolasco

Edwin Jackson

Nate Robertson

Dontrele Willis

Jeremy Bonderman

Jake Westbrook

Aaron Harang

Bronson Arroyo

Kevin Millwood

Wandy Rodriguez

Chris Young

Kevin Correia

Gil Meche

Zach Duke

Jason Guthrie

Derek Lowe

Add Paulino's name to the growing list of catchers...

One thing is for sure, the Mets will be able to find a catcher this off-season.

On the trade front, rumored to be available are Kelly Shoppach, John Buck, Chris Snyder, Ryan Doumit, Gerald Laird and Brandon Inge ( if you consider him a catcher ).

If the team is unwilling to give up pieces for a catcher then they can sign Bengie Molina, Rob Barajas, Yorvit Torrealba or one of about 10 other free agent catchers.

Ronny Paulino can now be added to the trade bait, reports indicate that the Marlins are going to be one of the more aggressive sellers this off-season and Paulino might be one of the pieces they look to move.

In 2007 his first full major league season, he hit .310 in 129 games as a 25 y/o. The next season he followed up with solid numbers as he hit .263 in a 133 games and was said to be on Omar's radar. But the next season concerns with his conditioning, health and defense arose, as he only played 40 games and hit .212.

He was traded to the Marlins in 2009 and rebounded by hitting .272 in 80 games, he has no power but hits for a decent average for a catcher and can be a move the line along guy.

Meanwhile, add catcher Ronny Paulino's name to the list of Marlins that have attracted trade interest from other clubs. Paulino shared catching duties with John Baker and ended the season with a .272 average and eight home runs in 239 bats. Interestingly, the Marlins obtained Paulino and Gload in separate trades, four days apart, at the end of spring training last year. source Miami Herald

Castillo still a hard move...

The Mets entered last off-season with the goal of trading Luis Castillo and when their efforts failed to move him, they entered the season with him as their starting 2B.

But a year later in which Castillo put up stellar table setter numbers, played the entire season healthy and is only owed 12MM over two more years the team seemed optimistic about their chances of moving him.

Clearly the Mets are trying hard to move Castillo and it would appear that the Cubs are extremely interested. The first two Mets rumors of the off-season have linked the Cubs to Castillo in a three way deal, both rumors have been dismissed but the Castillo to the Cubs part has not been disputed.

The Mets don't want Bradley and the Cubs don't appear willing to to give anyone else up in the deal which leaves Omar looking for a third team, which are very tough to pull off.

Despite early reports that Omar was surprised by the amount of interest in Castillo, it still seems like moving the 2B is going to be hard to do.

Castillo was a productive member of this team, he hit .302 in 142 games with a .387 OBP, but moving Castillo is more about changing the dynamic of the team then it is about his production.

Castillo somehow became the face of failure for Mets fans in 2008 an image he's been unable to live down. For Omar he's an injury risk on a team that cant afford injury risks.

It's always been speculated that Castillo had a negative impact on the clubhouse and while not one report has ever come out to substantiate those rumors, if the team is working this hard to move a .386 OBP table setter I have to believe there's more going on behind the scenes then appeasing the fans.

The gimpy Castillo's continued presence remains a stumbling block for the Mets, who would like to pursue free agents Orlando Hudson or Chone Figgins at second base if they could somehow find a taker for Castillo's contract. source NY Post

Omar to see Delgado...

As I see it there are four issues in play with Carlos Delgado, which makes it understandable that their torn over what direction to take.

1) They are going to be hard pressed to replace a healthy Delgado's production in the middle of the line-up.

2) At 37 y/o his first two seasons with the Mets were plagued with nagging injuries and last year he lost the entire season, can Carlos remain healthy enough to be a productive player.

3) Since 2006 Delgado has been the unofficial captain of this team, is it time to move on in a different direction.

4) What will he cost and will it be worth the actual production he provides.

Omar Minaya will meet with Delgado this weekend at Carlos Beltran's benefit, Beltran has been very vocal in support of Delgado returning. While there doesn't appear to be a plan to make a decision on Delgado until they see him play in Mid-December, it does appear that they are more interested in him then they were Pedro last year...

Omar Minaya will have a chance to talk face to face with Carlos Delgado on Saturday as part of a Mets contingent headed to Puerto Rico for a fundraiser to benefit Carlos Beltran's baseball academy. source Newsday

Juan Rivera maybe available

It's seems like the Mets are always interested in Juan Rivera, the 30 y/o right handed corner outfielder has been a mainstay of Mets rumors for several years. He is a lifetime .282 hitter, with a Slg. pct. .470 and an OBP .331/ OPS .801. Rivera has played one major league game at first, but the Angels have contemplated the move for years and he has extensively practiced at the position. Last off-season he signed a three year deal to stay with the Angels worth 12.75MM ( '10'-4.25MM/ '11'-5.25MM). Now the Angels maybe looking to move him...

There are indications the Angels might be willing to trade outfielder Juan Rivera source SI Jon Heyman

Does Bay's slugging outweigh his defense...

Rob Bradford of WEEI takes a look at the market for Jayson Bay. The Mets are said to prefer Matt Holliday but they have also said they will only go so far to obtain the left fielder. If Holliday goes elsewhere then the best alternative is Jayson Bay. Bay's defense is worse then Holliday's and he hits slightly less but would that be enough for the Mets to pass. Here's Bradford's take on the Mets...

Mets: You know they have money, and they also fit the model in terms of the type of team that would value what Bay brings to the table. It has been well-documented that Bay’s detractors point to defensive metrics that don’t paint a pretty picture. (Although Bay’s agent, Joe Urbon, not only pointed out the flip-side to that argument when talking to WEEI.com, but said just a few days ago that no team he had talked to has brought up concerns regarding any of the outfielder’s defensive deficiencies.) So why does that concern the perception we might have in regards to the Mets’ interest in Bay? Check out this quote from New York GM Omar Minaya at the general managers meetings last week: “Defense is important because it’s a pretty big ballpark. But the bottom line is that if you’re a corner outfielder you’ve got to have slug,” Minaya said. “I would put offense over defense right now in a corner outfielder.” Interesting … source WEEI

Won't take much to out bid the Giants for Molina

If you believe the reports, then Bengie Molina is our primary target for catcher this off-season. Molina was targeted by Omar in 2006 but when the veteran catcher was slow to respond the Mets traded for Paul Lo Duca. Now the team is looking for power from as many positions as possible and not only does Molina hit around 15 HRs per season he also has an excellent reputation with young staffs. The Giants would like Molina back but only if he'll take a low ball one year deal, so it shouldn't take much to outbid them...

With prospect Buster Posey perceived to be ready to reach the Majors sometime next season, if not by Opening Day, the Giants are unwilling to offer Molina anything longer than a one-year contract.

"I don't know that Bengie's interested in something like that or [whether] it's even fair to Bengie," admitted Sabean, who anticipated that Molina will receive a multiyear contract offer. The Giants are expected to offer salary arbitration to Molina on Dec. 1, which would entitle them to Draft-choice compensation if he signs elsewhere. source MLB.com

Harden & Johnson not returning to the Cubs

I don't believe either player will end up with the Mets because they are injury risks but I still think they would solid additions to the club. Rich Harden and Reed Johnson don't appear in the Cubs plan for next year mainly due to the injuries they sustained during the 2009 season.

Rich Harden when on the field is one of the best pitchers in the league, the problem is Harden always seemed to be injured. It's true he's a risk but I feel the reward is worth it, what I would do is also sign a Jason Marquis level guy so that the rotation isn't devastated if he becomes injured. Of course, I suggested the same thing last year with Sheets and would have been completely burned in that move. The 27 y/o right hander already has 8 seasons under his belt with a lifetime 3.39 ERA and a record of 50 -29 but has only pitched 135 games in that time and has never pitched 33 games ( full season for a starter).

Reed Johnson is a 4th or 5th outfielder and we already have solid players at those positions in Pagan and Sullivan. But if the team decides to go in another direction or Pagan is packaged in a deal such like Chavez was last year then Johnson would be a solid replacement. The 32 y/o right handed outfielder is a lifetime .282 hitter with a Slg. pct. of .411 in seven seasons.

Harden and Johnson both have expressed an interest in returning to Chicago, but because of other contract commitments, the Cubs most likely cannot afford either one. Gregg knew he wasn't coming back when Marmol was named closer on Aug. 18. source MLB.com

Pads have interesting pieces to move...

The Padres maybe looking to move some players that might interest the Mets. San Diego currently has two third baseman who are both arbitration eligible, they could end up moving one of them to save some money. Either player could interest the Mets despite having a franchise player at third.

Kevin Kouzmanoff is a gold glove caliber 3B who I believe with those defensive skills could transition to 1B easily. The 28 y/o right hander would be a solid platoon partner for Murphy. He is a lifetime .261 hitter and has averaged around 20 HRs a season.

Chase Headley is the other 3B who has spent a significant amount of time playing left field because of playing on the same team as Kouzmanoff. The 25 y/o right handed hitter is a lifetime .264 hitter but has only averaged 10 HRs in his first two seasons.

The Padres have two third basemen on their roster in Kouzmanoff and left fielder Chase Headley, a third baseman by trade. The team could move one of the players for a right-handed bat, which is believed to be a priority this offseason. source MLB.com

Here's an inexpensive version of DeRosa...Little Cat

The Mets appear to be in the market for a super utility player, whether it's Chone Figgins or Mark DeRosa they seem to be looking for a player who will provide a solid bat and over 100 games in a season at several different positions.

The problem with either of those players is that they appear to be hot commodities and the team will have to give multiple year contracts at top dollar for a player with no true position.

Figgins would be the most expensive at 31 y/o he is the youngest and has the best offensive numbers with a lifetime .291 BA , OBP .363 and Slg. .388 while having the range to play over 300 games in center field. But you will be giving him a big payday to play out of his primary position 3B.

Mark DeRosa is a 35 y/o player who is being sought by over ten teams. He can play anywhere but center field and catcher, he is a lifetime .275 BA, OBP .343 and Slg .424. Because of the demand for his services he will more then likely be over paid this off-season and while I like DeRosa he won't be worth the contract he gets.

A cheaper version of DeRosa that nobody has linked to any team is Frank Catalanotto. The free agent 35 y/o is a lefty and only played 80 games the last two season but otherwise his numbers are strikingly similar to DeRosa's. He has played every position except catcher, center field and SS ( DeRosa not much of a SS either anymore). He's a lifetime .292 BA, .358 OBP and Slg. .446. The "Little Cat" is from Smithtown, NY and would probably only take a one year deal to provide the same versatility as DeRosa...

Chances slim of Byrd returning to the Rangers

I completed a post on Marlon Byrd, here.

While not being the most appealing candidate, if Bay and Holliday go else where he maybe the best of whats left. Byrd has been in talks with the Rangers since the end of the season but it does not appear that they will be able to negotiate a contract...

"We've had a decent amount of conversation," Daniels said. "I expect them to test the market. Based on what they're looking for...we're not in a position to do that right now. We expect them to talk to other clubs and see what's out there. We're going to be looking at alternatives." source Hot Stove Blog

Mets interested in DeRosa

Mark DeRosa is a 34 y/o right handed hitting super utility, despite not having a primary position DeRosa has played 100 games or more in the last seven of eight years.

He has over 300 games at 2B and 3B, 150 games in right field, over 100 games at SS, 50 games in left field and 20 games at 1B.

He is a .275 lifetime hitter with a .343 OBP and a .767 OPS.

I think DeRosa would be a great addition but this year with so many holes and so many teams interested in him, I can't see us acquiring him...

Of the Dodgers' interest in DeRosa, Grunewald said, "The interest is mutual." But the agent said that the Dodgers are one of a dozen teams that have asked about DeRosa, identifying the others as the Cardinals, Mariners, Nationals, Giants,Phillies, Orioles, Rangers, Yankees, Mets, Twins and Braves. source LA Times

Could Pena be available...

Tommy Rancel of DRaysbay makes a pretty convincing case for his Rays to trade Carlos Pena.

The 31 y/o left handed first baseman is on the last year of a contract in which he'll earn 10.12MM for the season. Pena is a classic late bloomer who bounced between four teams before becoming a starter at the age of 28 y/o. The Rangers, Tigers, Red Sox and Yankees all gave up on him before he became the Rays starting first baseman.

In 2007 he hit .282 with 49 homeruns over the next two seasons he would hit over 30 Homeruns while his batting average would dip to .237.

Rancel acknowledges concerns over Pena's hitting, not his power but his keen batting eye and patience at the plate, there is also concern with his defense as he posted a UZR -4.6%. Still he concludes with the following about trading the slugger...

Beyond the high salary and some production concerns, there are also the compensation issue. Trading Pena won't net the same type of return as Crawford and nobody should expect such a thing. However, for a team who's looking for power, can accept a few flaws, and afford the price tag, Pena is very attractive option even if it's for a one year rental. I'm not going to speculate on a return, but I'm guessing the Rays could do pretty well in any potential deal. source DRaysbay

Marquis wants to be a Met...

I like the fact that Jason Marquis wants to be a Met and that he would receive added incentive to pitch in front of friends and family. The Mets need players who have a desire to play here and aren't just here for a big payday.

That doesn't mean that I believe Marquis is the answer to all of our rotational problems, I see him as an up grade to Tim Redding. A solid veteran pitcher in the back end of the rotation who provides innings and gives the staff flexibility.

If Marquis joins the team I still believe we need another starter but I doesn't have to be a top of the line starter, if Lackey's price is too high I could live with Marquis and another decent starter ( Garland, Wolf, Pineiro)...

The 31-year-old right-hander told the New York Post in a report that ran on Wednesday that he considers the Mets "a perfect fit" to be his next destination.

"It would always be nice to come back home and represent your hometown," said Marquis, who grew up and still resides in Staten Island, N.Y. "This is where I'm from, so to come back here and play in front of friends and family would be an honor." source MLB.com