Note to the New York Mets: Don't Neglect the Bullpen

With all of the talk about the New York Mets' plans in 2010 and beyond, few, if any, have mentioned the bullpen. As one of the lone bright spots for the team this season, the Mets' bullpen is going to need some attention next year. Currently, the Mets have two ex-All-Star setup men on their roster in Billy Wagner and J.J. Putz. Although, both have options for next season, it's highly unlikely either will be brought back without at least signing a new deal that will pay them less money. Even so, I still don’t see this happening. In Wagner’s case, he wants the role of closer, which he has held with numerous teams for the better part of the past decade. This is something that the Mets simply cannot offer him due to that position being occupied by the younger Francisco Rodriguez. As in Wagner’s situation, Putz would also prefer to close, however, he agreed to setup K-Rod upon being traded to New York from Seattle. Putz is also six years younger than Wagner ...