Buzz: Carl Crawford wants a Long-Term Extension
…my first thought upon hearing news of Jose Reyes, his torn hamstring, torn hamstring tendon, and the potential for surgery, was Carl Crawford, who, though he doesn’t play shortstop, could replace jose – if necessary – at the top of the Mets batting order next season…
However, according to the St. Petersburg Times, not only are the Rays likely to exercise Crawford’s $10 million option, there 
is very little chance they trade him this off season.
Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com seems to disagree, saying recently that the Rays might want to consider trading Crawford now instead OF B.J. Upton, whose value is much lower.
Crawford told the Tampa Tribune that he would be interested in signing a long-term contract extension this season, but, if he doesn’t, he told the St. Petersburg Times, he will test free agency following next season.
…i bet crawford asks for a five-year deal, which would cover him through 33 years old… i have no idea if the Rays are willing to dish out such a contract, which would committ them to one player for at least another $12 million per season…
…in the days following the trade deadline, i was convinced the Mets would make crawford a top priority this off season, since he fits many of their Citi-Field needs… now, i’m not so sure…
…the Rays were said to be looking to clear money from their payroll, but i think that was more of 2009 issue, to acquire pitching, and to free up money to re-sign 1B Carlos Pena and crawford - both of whom will soon be free agents, and both of whom happen to play positions the Mets could look to upgrade this off season…
