Mike Puma of the NY Post reports that the Mets aren’t finished looking for relief help. Even with the additions of Tyler Clippard and Eric O’Flaherty, their bullpen has been unreliable and inconsistent during the second half. Mets’ relievers own an ERA just above four since the break, and they have allowed 13 runs in their last 17 innings.
Puma says the Mets have looked into reuniting with the team’s former closer Francisco Rodriguez, but the fact that he is owed money beyond this year is an issue. K-Rod, who is dominating for the Brewers, is under contract next year for $ 5.5 Million. He has an excellent 2.06 ERA and 0.82 WHIP in 43.2 innings serving as Milwaukee’s closer this season.
Fernando Rodney is another possibility, but Puma says he isn’t high on their list. Rodney has struggled mightily this year with a 5.68 ERA and was recently designated for assignment by Seattle. Despite his problems this season, the 38 year old reliever is only one year removed from leading the American League in saves and having a solid 2.85 ERA.
The bullpen is going to be strengthened regardless with Logan Verrett expected to move back into relief and Erik Goeddel about to return from the disabled list. However, it would still be nice if the Mets could add an experienced veteran like K-Rod for the playoff race in September.
