The Mets have been engaged with at least three agents and two teams at the winter meetings about acquiring relief help, although it was unclear whether anything will emerge before the winter meetings conclude, an organization source said. The discussions have been concrete enough that something could materialize.
Jon Rauch
#60 RP
Toronto Blue Jays
2011 STATS
- GM53
W5
L4
BB14
K36
- ERA4.85
Team officials are leaning toward spreading the available dollars over multiple relievers rather than concentrate the dollars with one ninth-inning arm, since the Mets need to get the ball to the closer somehow. Only Manny Acosta, Tim Byrdak and Bobby Parnell really can be counted upon to play a role in the 2012 bullpen among relievers currently under control. Pedro Beato has minor league options, Daniel Herrera is not locked in as a second southpaw and D.J. Carrasco better have a very good spring. Rookie Josh Stinson could have a role.
An organization insider said the Mets have about 11 attainable relief names on their board, including Jon Rauch, Frank Francisco, Octavio Dotel and Jason Isringhausen. The Mets are believed to have met with Rauch's agent Tuesday. He also reps Brad Lidge.