The Mets' relief staff helped cause a late-season meltdown in 2008, so a revamping of the bullpen was in order. That was taken care of at the winter meetings, when GM Omar Minaya signed free agent closer Francisco Rodriguez and traded for J.J. Putz, who will serve as a setup man.
BIGGEST NEEDS: The Mets have two vacancies to fill in the rotation, behind LHP Johan Santana, RHP Mike Pelfrey and RHP John Maine. They also have an opening in left field, though the current plan appears to be having Daniel Murphy and Fernando Tatis platoon there. ARRIVALS: RHP Francisco Rodriguez (free agent from Angels), RHP J.J. Putz (trade with Mariners), OF Jeremy Reed (trade with Mariners), RHP Sean Green (trade with Mariners), RHP Darren O'Day (Rule 5 selection from Angels), RHP Rocky Cherry (Rule 5 selection from Orioles), RHP Connor Robertson (trade with Diamondbacks), RHP Tim Redding (free agent from Nationals), LHP Casey Fossum (minor league free agent from Tigers).
DEPARTURES: RHP Joe Smith (traded to Indians), RHP Aaron Heilman (traded to Mariners), OF Endy Chavez (traded to Mariners), LHP Scott Schoeneweis (traded to Diamondbacks), OF Trot Nixon (free agent, signed minor league deal with Brewers).
FREE AGENTS: LF Moises Alou, RHP Tony Armas Jr., RHP Luis Ayala, 2B Damion Easley, RHP Orlando Hernandez, RHP Pedro Martinez, 2B Ramon Martinez, LHP Oliver Perez, LHP Ricardo Rincon, RHP Matt Wise, RHP Ambiorix Burgos (non-tendered).
Hernandez might be forced into retirement by a bunion that was surgically removed from his right big toe, while Alou's injury-plagued career could be over. Perez, represented by Scott Boras, will command a four- to five-year deal. Martinez has resolved to pitch in 2009, but it might have to be elsewhere. Easley was productive, but he turned 39 on Nov. 11 and has been susceptible to injury, so the Mets intend to turn elsewhere for a backup middle infielder.
ARBITRATION-ELIGIBLE: LHP Pedro Feliciano, RHP John Maine.
Maine is seeking $3 million, while the club has offered $2.2 million.
IN LIMBO: 2B Luis Castillo, with three years and $18 million left on his contract, has been shopped this winter, but the Mets are finding no real interest.
MEDICAL WATCH:
LHP Johan Santana underwent surgery Oct. 1 to repair torn meniscus in his left knee. He should be fine by spring training.
RHP John Maine underwent surgery Sept. 30 to shave a bony growth behind his right shoulder that was irritating a muscle. He's expected to begin long-tossing in late December and should be on a regular schedule in spring training.
LHP Billy Wagner, who had Tommy John surgery in September 2008, but may return in September 2009.
