Mets put off by increase in closing costs
Delighted by the prospects of moving into a new home, the Mets have learned of a significant increase in closing costs. Because of the injury that has denied them the services of Billy Wagner, they may incur greater expense than anticipated in their effort to replace him if they intend to import one of their primary players on their wish list.
The club apparently was surprised to learn the asking price for free-agent closer Brian Fuentes is comparable, in terms of average annual value to what it has paid for Wagner, about $10-11 million. A report in the Thursday editions of the New York Daily News said as much and, while noting the club retains interest in the left-handed reliever who has earned 111 saves in the last four years, it also stated the Mets consider the price tag greater than his value.
Wagner, who underwent reconstructive surgery on his left elbow last summer, signed a $43 million contract covering 2006-2009. At the time, the Mets sensed they couldn't pass on signing him, especially with the Phillies also pursuing him. The Mets' inclusion of a guaranteed fourth year set them apart from the Phillies and persuaded Wagner to bring his fastball to Queens. The report said Fuentes, 33, is seeking a three-year deal, but even that package -- three years for $30-33 million -- evidently exceeds the Mets' assessed value for the pitcher.
Weeks ago, a member of the Mets hierarchy acknowledged the club doesn't view Fuentes or, for that matter, Francisco Rodriguez, as it did Wagner, in a "must-have" way, even though the need for a closer is as great now as it was in November 2005. However, Rodriguez seemingly would have greater appeal than Fuentes because is more accomplished -- see 62 saves, 2008 -- and he is younger by 6 1/2 years.
-- Marty Noble
The club apparently was surprised to learn the asking price for free-agent closer Brian Fuentes is comparable, in terms of average annual value to what it has paid for Wagner, about $10-11 million. A report in the Thursday editions of the New York Daily News said as much and, while noting the club retains interest in the left-handed reliever who has earned 111 saves in the last four years, it also stated the Mets consider the price tag greater than his value.
Wagner, who underwent reconstructive surgery on his left elbow last summer, signed a $43 million contract covering 2006-2009. At the time, the Mets sensed they couldn't pass on signing him, especially with the Phillies also pursuing him. The Mets' inclusion of a guaranteed fourth year set them apart from the Phillies and persuaded Wagner to bring his fastball to Queens. The report said Fuentes, 33, is seeking a three-year deal, but even that package -- three years for $30-33 million -- evidently exceeds the Mets' assessed value for the pitcher.
Weeks ago, a member of the Mets hierarchy acknowledged the club doesn't view Fuentes or, for that matter, Francisco Rodriguez, as it did Wagner, in a "must-have" way, even though the need for a closer is as great now as it was in November 2005. However, Rodriguez seemingly would have greater appeal than Fuentes because is more accomplished -- see 62 saves, 2008 -- and he is younger by 6 1/2 years.
-- Marty Noble
Given the problems (or self-destructive behavior) of the Mets the last two seasons, their fans might demand that they find the money to get some help. Or else they might have trouble filling that new ballpark. Regardless of what they name it!
Julia
http://werbiefitz.mlblogs.com/
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Fuentes price high? Jajaja... Jeremy Affeldt who isn't even a closer just signed for 2yrs 8 million(4 million per year) and he isn't even a closer. Brian Fuentes for 3yrs 10-11 million. I'm very surpriced the Mets to say this, I mean they're from New York. They must be concerned about their payroll. And also consider the fact Francisco Rodriguez might earn 10-12 million per year.
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