July 9: Morning Mets Links

NY Post – Joel Sherman reports that the Yankees have leapfrogged the Rangers and are very close to acquiring Cliff Lee, with a package that includes catching prospect Jesus Montero. Unless this scares the Mets into becoming serious about him, Lee will not be coming to Queens.

ESPN New York – A preview of this weekend’s series against the division-leading Atlanta Braves.

Daily Stache – Matthew Falkenberry discusses the Mets, Braves and the renewal of the rivalry.

Mets Gazette – Jason Adamowicz thinks the Mets should hold Jose Reyes out of the All-Star Game.

ESPN New  York – Adam Rubin thinks Nick Evans could join the Mets soon.

Seattle Times – A very interesting article about the evolution of Mariners fans. It’s not really about Cliff Lee, but it is a great read. Next time you hear Joe Beningo whine about the horrors (bro) about growing up a Mets/Jets/Knicks fan (bro), just remember that we all could’ve grown up rooting for the Mariners/Seahawks/Sonics. And that’s not stellar (bro). (via MetsGrrl)

And now, Kerel Cooper of OnTheBlack will recap who’s hot and who’s not: