Tim Redding, the newest addition to the Mets' pitching corps, welcomed the chance to sign with the organization -- even if it's unresolved whether he works in the rotation or in the bullpen.
"They obviously have a lot of great guys here from last year -- (Johan) Santana leading the way at the No. 1," said Redding, who signed a one-year, $2.25 million deal. "If I'm in competition for a particular numbered spot, so be it. Starter, reliever, it doesn't matter. I'm here to win. Regardless of what number in the rotation, what capacity, it's no difference to me." Redding can earn up to $750,000 in bonuses as a starter or $500,000 as a reliever. He should enter spring training as the favorite to claim the No. 5 spot in the rotation over rookies Jon Niese and Bobby Parnell.
Redding, who turns 31 on Feb. 12, was non-tendered by the Nationals after going 10-11 with a 4.95 ERA last season. He's been particularly effective against the Phillies throughout his career, having gone 5-3 with a 3.29 ERA in 11 career starts.
"I can't really explain it," Redding said. "Why can I have success against an elite team like that and then struggle? It's a crazy game. I plan on continuing that success. All I'm going to do is my best and help the team win as many as possible."
Returning to New York was a no-brainer for the Rochester, N.Y., native.
"I grew up rooting for New York teams," he said. "I loved watching the '86 World Series with the Mets, the Subway Series in 2000. Wherever my career took me, playing in New York was one of my all-time dreams. Thirty years old, I've made it. I don't plan on relinquishing my dreams.
"I've always had in my mind I wanted to be in New York. With my talent, my road through some of the other teams, it's never been a fit for me. As soon as Washington non-tendered me last December, there were rumors. I told my agent, 'If the Mets are interested, get on the phone.' There's no place I'd rather be than trying to get the Mets to a World Series."
