New York Mets looking to sign an ‘affordable’ closer – MLB Update
It is becoming evident that the New York Mets are now looking for a compromise in a bid to slash their payroll. After delaying Jose Reyes’ signing, the Mets are now looking for a closer who is affordable and carries a decent skill-set.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Jonathan Broxton, Philadelphia Phillies’ Brad Lidge and Minnesota Twins’ Joe Nathan are all available in the free agent market and do not carry a hefty price tag. The Mets are looking to sign a short-term contract which is not lucrative.
The trio is open to such offers and it will be interesting to see how things develop hereafter.
Broxton missed the most of the last two seasons citing injuries after bagging 36 saves in 2009. Broxton’s agent, B.B. Abbott, asserted that his client is open to teams who are seeking closers at a reduced cost. However, he was quick to add that Broxton does
not intend to become a closer immediately and might be more useful as a setup man. The agent continued that after missing a lot of action, Broxton wants to re-establish himself as an elite relief pitcher and will accept any role which is in the offing.
Lidge, after performing exceptionally for the Phillies this past season, is testing waters in the free agent market for the first time. Lidge’s agent, Rex Gary, asserted that his client is open to offers from all teams and that it will not be appropriate
to disclose whether the Mets have made an offer yet. However, he added that closing is not the only job that Lidge is looking for and that any contract which seems considerable will be regarded.
There are rumours that the Phillies might re-sign Lidge in a setup role. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this assertion and Lidge might move to another team in a bid to cash in on the respect that he enjoys from younger players and act
as a mentor.
Nathan, on the contrary, has clarified that he is open to a short-term contract and will have no issues playing for the Mets. Nathan believes that he is fully fit and will have no injury problems during 2012.
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