Buzz: Mets talk Benjie Molina, C over 2B
According to Jon Heyman of SI.com, Omar Minaya’s top priority is to upgrade his team’s bullpen, followed by catcher, the rotation and possibly the outfield, adding, “Second base is of lesser consideration.”
As such, the Mets have discussed trading for Giants C Bengie Molina, writes Heyman.
In 145 games in 2008, the 34–year-old Molina hit .292 with 16 HR and 95 RBI while batting clean-up for the Giants.
Molina threw out 34 percent of runners attempting to steal against him last season, his highest rate in five years.
He will earn $6 million in 2009, after which he is eligible to be a free agent, though he has talked about wanting an extension.
…i like molina…but, i remember talking to a few people in san francisco, a few years back when he was a free agent, who noted how sensitive he is…he does not take criticism well, from fans and reporters, this person noted…this may or may not be true…however, considering the new york market, this may be something to consider…
…that said, the Giants have a young catcher Pablo Sandoval, who was essentially Barry Zito’s personal catcher down the stretch, starting over molina, so it stands to reason that molina can be had…
…i wonder if a deal for molina and Randy Winn could be struck…
Speaking of catcher, according to Heyman, Boston will offer C Jason Varitek a two-year deal, but not the four-year contract he is looking for, suggesting, instead, they may try to trade for Rangers C Gerald Laird or Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
…if the Mets intend to upgrade from Brian Schneider, it’s going to have to happen with a trade, as the top free-agent catchers include Brad Ausmus, Josh Bard, Paul Lo Duca, Pudge Rodriguez and the 36-year-old varitek, who hit just .220 last season and, as noted above, wants a four-year deal…
Heyman also reports on the Yankees and CC Sabathia; whether Coco Crisp will stay in Boston; the cost of Matt Holliday; Mark Teixeira; and where free-agent Ken Griffey Jr. could end up.
