Buzz: The Mets, Livan, Freddie and Bartolo
…as i noted yesterday, there had been more and more buzz coming from Nashville suggesting that the Mets are seriously considering Livan Hernandez…
Later in the day, citing ‘a source,’ MLB.com reported that the Nationals may be willing to give 
Hernandez a two-year deal.
Last night, according to the New York Times, and today in the New York Post, both Minaya and Hernandez’s agent have met while in Nashville.
Meanwhile, this morning in the Daily News, citing ‘educated speculation,’ Adam Rubin writes that if the Mets ultimately ‘fall short’ of Erik Bedard or Dan Haren, they may instead ‘focus on signing a free agent,’ perhaps Hernandez or Bartolo Colon.
…educated speculation…i think that was a song by Hall and Oates, wasn’t it…anyway…
According to Rubin, ‘Hernandez is expected to get a multi-year deal,’ while quoting Hernandez’s agent as saying, “I would characterize the Mets as being very interested in signing Livan.”
Lastly, in the Star-Ledger, Dan Graziano reports that the Mets also have inquired about free-agent RHP Freddy Garcia, as well as Colon, ‘thinking they might be able to get them on the cheap because they are coming off of injury seasons.’
However, according to Graziano, ‘at least a half-dozen other teams have the same idea, which could drive up the price on both free-agent pitchers.’
…as i wrote the other day, i recalled hearing a day or so ago that the Mets may be the front runners for garcia, who will not be able to pitch until mid-season, but they are holding back until they know what may come from pursuing other markets…
