Link Roundup: The Latest on Bourn, Other Activity
According to a tweet by former GM Jim Bowden, if the Mets were able to sign Michael Bourn, it is “likely” the Mets would be able to retain their first round pick.
According to a league source if the Mets were able to sign Michael Bourn it is likely through negotiations w/union pick would be protected
— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) February 7, 2013
Bowden is now an analyst for ESPN and SiriusXM.
If true, this would eliminate one huge roadblock between the Mets and Bourn. The remaining roadblocks would be the length and value of the contract. According to Bowden, who has been a veritable font of knowledge today, Bourn and his camp are looking for $14-15 million per year. The Mets, at this point, are not willing to pay that much, nor are they willing to give him the five years he’s looking for. They’d love a three-year deal, but might settle for four.
The Mets rounded out their bullpen by signing veteran Brandon Lyon. Lyon is 33, and enjoyed a fine 2012 with Houston and Toronto. Combined, he appeared in 67 games, posted a 3.10 ERA, and had the highest SO/9 ratio of his eleven-year career (9.3).
Jon Rauch won’t be joining Lyon in the ‘pen for the Mets this year, but he will remain in the NL East.
The Mets also signed OF Corey Patterson. Remember him? Does “15-2” and “Tom Glavine” ring a bell?
And Terry Collins is planning to start Johan Santana on Opening Day. I’m sure a lot of that is contingent on how he pitches in the Pre-Season.
Finally, GM Sandy Alderson answered questions from fans on Twitter, and as always, Mets tweeps took it very seriously.