Jon Niese “is believed to be available” in a package for Seth Smith

In a post to Fox Sports, Tracy Ringolsby writes that New York Mets starter Jonathan Niese “is believed to be available” in a package built around Colorado Rockies outfielder Seth Smith. According to Ringolsby, the signing of former Twins outfielder Michael Cuddyer allows Colorado to shop Smith:

Photo taken by Michael Baron

With Cuddyer in right and Gonzalez in left, the Rockies could have a major offseason move remaining by shopping Seth Smith for a starting pitcher. Mets lefty Jonathan Niese is believed to be available in a package built around Smith. … The Rockies rotation is a major question mark, which is why they picked up Kevin Slowey from Minnesota and signed him to a $2.75 million deal for 2012, and why they want another veteran pitcher, such as Niese.”

Niese for Smith? Really? I find this very hard to believe. Or at least, something I don’t want to believe. This is not to say I have anything against Seth Smith. The 29-year-old has had modest numbers over the last three season with Colorado; including this past season in which he hit .284 with a .347 on-base percentage, 15 home runs and 59 runs batted in 476 at-bats. But, what I find confusing about this rumored deal is the Mets — who are on a limited budget — would be adding to their payroll; as Smith could earn upwards of $2.6 million in arbitration this winter. Not to mention that the Mets outfield is pretty much set with Jason Bay, Andres Torres, and Lucas Duda. Which means, NY is essentially trading their best starter — who is under team control for the next four years — for a back-up corner outfielder.

Let’s be honest, if the Mets are unwilling to deal Niese for Gio Gonzalez as Jon Heyman tweeted, then I doubt he will be heading to Colorado for Seth Smith:

Original Story: http://www.metszilla.com/2011/12/17/j...