An interesting tweet from Mike Puma of the New York Post who said the Mets believed they could get Peralta on a two-year deal:
“Mets dealing with “sticker shock” on free agents. Thought they could get Peralta on a two-year deal, but he wants at least three years.”
On November 11 I actually used the same term to describe recent statements and actions by the Mets front office:
“My guess is that Sandy is suffering from sticker shock. I think it’s safe to say that as much as they wanted you to believe everything is now hunky-dory, it’s obviously not.”
Let me add that this does not mean they won’t still continue to pursue Peralta. I think they will.
However, this just shows how poorly they misjudged this year’s market and explains their hesitation in signing any free agents now and preferring to wait until late in the offseason instead.
Original Post 11/19
MLB Trade Rumors reported on Monday that the Yankees are expressing interest in Jhonny Peralta, according to Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports.
Peralta would provide the Yankees with insurance should Alex Rodriguez miss significant time with a suspension or in the event of a Derek Jeter injury. He has extensive big league experience at both shortstop and third base.
The Mets met with the free-agent shortstop during the GM Meetings, but a team executive downplayed it saying he just happened to be in Orlando.
Today, Sandy Alderson revealed to reporters that he hasn’t had any contact with Peralta since a rumored meeting with him at the GM Meetings a week ago in Orlando, Fla.
ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that Peralta’s agent is looking for “Big-Time Money” and far more than a three-year, $45 million contract.
The Mets want to add a shortstop from outside the organization. With Stephen Drew expected to be outside their price range, Peralta figured to be the top target in a limited pool of candidates at the position, writes Rubin.
Peralta, 31, was the second most productive player in the Tigers lineup prior to his 50 game suspension for violating major league baseball’s joint drug agreement. He batted .303/.358/457 this season and his strong first half earned him a spot on the All Star team.
An average season for Peralta would like .290 with 35 doubles, 15 home runs, 80 runs, and 80 RBIs.
