Rob Bradford of WEEI in Boston. is reporting that the Mets are awaiting the results of a physical before officially announcing that they have signed infielder Alex Cora to a one year deal for $2 million dollars. The deal also includes a vesting option that could guarantee a second year if Cora reaches a minimum number of plate appearances or games played.
According to source familiar with the negotiations, former Red Sox infielder Alex Cora is close to a one-year deal with a vesting option for second with the New York Mets. The deal, which would guarantee the 34-year-old the same $2 million he made in ‘09 during at least the initial year of the contract, is expected to be finalized upon Cora passing a physical.
Alex Cora played in 82 games with the Mets last season before succumbing to torn ligaments in both thumbs that ended his season.
He hit .251 while taking over for Jose Reyes who was lost for the season due to leg and hamstring injuries.
I really don’t understand the urgency in locking in a roster spot to a utility player whose best days are behind him. His limited performance was not so outstanding that it warranted a two million dollar deal. Especially when he has yet to swing a bat after off season surgery on both of his hands.
Assuming the Mets stick to their game plan and sign the righthanded bat to platoon with Murphy at first base, an everyday leftfielder, and a starting catcher, it could mean that the Mets bench will once again feature Daniel Murphy, Omir Santos, Angel Pagan, Jeremy Reed and Alex Cora.
I don’t know about you, but it sounds a little bit too familiar for a team that is looking to shed the stigma of last season. But that’s just me.
