Reunion rumors: Mets show interest in K-Rod and Ayala

Wouldn’t it be interesting if the Mets, in an effort to address their bullpen issues, choose to do so by targeting two of their least popular former relievers.  Disappointing might be a better word than interesting, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a possibility.  On Sunday afternoon it was reported that New York is one of half a dozen teams to express interest in Luis Ayala:

#bbpBox_143184713144745985 a { text-decoration:none; color:#009999; }#bbpBox_143184713144745985 a:hover { text-decoration:underline; }There are 6 teams in on Luis Ayala including Mets Yankees Rays Blue jays Angels and Red Sox according to sourcesabout 18 hours ago via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite@JimBowdenESPNxmJIM BOWDEN

Ayala, who enjoyed a revival season of sorts with the Yankees last season (2-2, 2.09 ERA), failed to put up such numbers in his time with the Mets back in 2008 (9 saves, 5.50 ERA).

While Ayala might come at a decent prize, one player that is sure to command a much bigger salary is Francisco Rodriguez, with whom the Mets have apparently been in contact with:

#bbpBox_143438266073481217 a { text-decoration:none; color:#cc0000; }#bbpBox_143438266073481217 a:hover { text-decoration:underline; }Here's an interesting twist: #mets have contacted krod. Lots of closing possibilities tho.about 1 hour ago via Mobile WebReplyRetweetFavorite@SI_JonHeymanJon Heyman

I realize the team has to do their due diligence on all free agent relievers but a K-Rod reunion just seems so far fetched given his history with the team.  Still, the New York’s interest in him appears to be very real:

#bbpBox_143451076165771264 a { text-decoration:none; color:#cc0000; }#bbpBox_143451076165771264 a:hover { text-decoration:underline; }Interesting to see mets have talked to krod and appear to be considering him. Would make interesting re-marriageabout 1 hour ago via Mobile WebReplyRetweetFavorite@SI_JonHeymanJon Heyman

Image by Michael G. Baron

One thing the Mets can waive in front of a guy like K-Rod or even someone like Brad Lidge is an opportunity to come in and be the closer.  That’s something other suitors may not be willing to offer and could be a big bargaining chip as the Winter Meetings progress.  In three years with New York Rodriguez saved 83 games in 98 opportunities (85% success rate) while accumulating a 9-10 record and a 3.04 ERA. No word on whether or not Armando Benitez or Aaron Heilman have been contacted for another go around in Queens.