2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Mets Closer Search

It’s no secret that the New York Mets are looking for a closer for the 2012 season.  After trading away veteran Francisco Rodriguez this summer, the Mets are left searching for their next finisher on the free agent and trade markets.  Several players have been tied to the Mets including free agents Jon Rauch and Brad Lidge as well as A’s and Rockies closers Andrew Bailey and Huston Street.

The Mets were one of several teams in on recently-signed reliever Jonathan Broxton.  According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets are not “discouraged about losing out of Broxton.  Now able to check the big righty off their list, sources are telling Puma that the Mets have “strong” interest in free agents Rauch and Lidge.

Both players have been closers in the past but have serious question marks surrounding them this winter.  Though he was successful during his time with the Phillies last year, Lidge only logged 19 1/3 innings in 2011.  Rauch was able to remain healthy last season, but he finished the year with a 4.85 ERA for the Blue Jays.

Two other more established options that the Mets are targeting are Andrew Bailey (A’s) and Huston Street (Rockies).  Both of these pitchers would have to be acquired through trade, and the A’s and Rockies have made it known that each closer is available this winter.  Bailey and Street offer teams such as the Mets a closer option at a more affordable price.  But for that more affordable contract the Mets will have to surrender players.

Including the Mets, six teams are reportedly interested in Street; the Blue Jays, Orioles, Marlins, Red Sox and Reds.  Bailey has been tied to the Mets, Reds and Rangers so far this offseason.

For more on the Mets, be sure to check out Rising Apple.