Day 2 of the Winter Meetings featured a few surprising free agent signings and a couple of trades. At this point, it seems likely that the majority of these trade rumors will continue into tomorrow, so the third day should be a big one. Today kicked off with the Nationals signing Dan Haren, who was not on the Mets' radar. The Diamondbacks have signed Eric Hinske, and the Red Sox have signed Shane Victorino. The Reds are apparently close to a two year deal with Ryan Ludwick. Also, the Rockies are close to acquiring Wilton Lopez from Houston and Tampa Bay is on the verge of acquiring Yunel Escobar from the Marlins. Those trades may become complete overnight.
As for the Mets, we haven't really gotten anything to talk about. The R.A. Dickey rumors really seem to be leaning toward a trade rather than an extension, especially because he apparently wants a 3 yr, $45 million deal. Even his agent wouldn't be surprised if Dickey gets traded, so expect to see more trade rumors revolving around him. Perhaps the Mets will wait until the higher-tiered pitchers, such as Zack Greinke and Anibal Sanchez, are off the free agent market, to negotiate with other teams. That way a team may feel compelled to give up their top prospects to acquire some last minute pitching.
Also, there were several reports indicating that the Mets have checked in on the availability of Mark Reynolds. I personally would hate to see Reynolds come to New York because a) the guy strikes out 200+ times a year, b) he wouldn't have a position (he would be a horrible outfielder) and c) he is probably going to be looking for a multiyear deal.
The Mets talked to Scott Hairston's agent today, and it is "probable" that the two sides eventually come to an agreement, so that is definitely a positive note.
Manny Parra is drawing interest from the Mets, who would use him as a left handed specialist if they were to acquire him. Personally I'd stay away from Parra, because his track record does not look good at all, and he hasn't been able to stay healthy for the last couple of seasons.
The Mets showed interest in signing free agent pitcher John Lannan. Lannan was non-tendered by the Nationals last week, and will probably not be re-signed by them now they have have Dan Haren in the rotation. I would love to see the Mets go after Lannan, because he is an ideal pitcher to have if the Mets end up trading Dickey or Niese.
The Mets are apparently interested in trading for Indians RHP Vinnie Pestano. I think that acquiring Pestano would be a great move, because I feel like the two clubs match up extremely well. I probably wouldn't give them Ike Davis, but I'd let Duda go in a possible Pestano swap, and throw in a Valdespin or Brad Holt as well. Pestano has a power arm, and would be an excellent addition to the bullpen.
Bobby Parnell is apparently untouchable this winter, according to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York. It is weird to think about why the organization thinks so highly of Parnell, because he has shown that he melts down when it comes to the 9th inning situations, and is probably better suited to be a setup man at best. I've always liked Parnell but if the Mets needed to package him, I'd be all for it.
Oh yeah, and tomorrow at 11 am (Eastern time), the Mets will have a press conference that will officially announce the contract extension for David Wright. That is something I'd definitely like to see, because I'd like to hear what David has to say about the future of this club.
As always I'll be doing another Winter Meetings recap tomorrow night. Be sure to check that out.
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