POSADA GRABS THE METS’ EYE

POSADA GRABS THE METS’ EYE

By MARK HALE

October 31, 2007 -- One intriguing player - and current free agent - the Mets have targeted this offseason is Jorge Posada.

The Mets have interest in Posada, the longtime Yankee catcher who filed for free agency on Monday and who would fill a position of uncertainty for the club. Paul Lo Duca has filed for free agency as well. Though Lo Duca's agent, Andrew Mongelluzzi, said yesterday the Mets have an interest in re-signing him, he is no lock to return. Either way, Posada is a more accomplished option.

This past year with the Yanks, Posada hit a career-best .338 with 20 homers, 90 RBIs and boasted a .426 on-base percentage. The five-time All-Star is also valued for his leadership and has shown impressive durability, playing in 140-plus games in each of the past three seasons. He also played under Willie Randolph when the Mets manager coached in The Bronx.

The tricky issue with the Mets and Posada is that the Yankees will bid for the backstop, who made $12 million this past year. They're expected to offer him a three-year deal in the range of $40 million, and they almost certainly won't be the only other team in the hunt either, as the Marlins could be a surprise candidate. Posada loves the Yankees - he's been with them since debuting in 1995 - but does like New York, meaning the Mets could be viable if he doesn't return to The Bronx.

Mongelluzzi said Mets management has told him of its interest.

“Omar [Minaya] reached out for us and let us know that the Mets were interested in bringing Paul back," Mongelluzzi said. “And we've had some preliminary discussions, but nothing in substance."

Mongelluzzi also said he was left with the impression the Mets would be making an offer. Lo Duca can discuss contractual terms exclusively with the Mets until Nov. 12 (ditto Posada with the Yankees). The agent said when it comes to determining Lo Duca's future, the “No. 1 factor for Paul is winning."

The feisty Lo Duca, a four-time All-Star, hit .272 with nine homers and 54 RBIs in 119 games this past year. He'll turn 36 next April, which makes him eight months younger than Posada.

Posada is the top free-agent catcher, while Lo Duca probably is the second-best. Other free-agent backstops include Michael Barrett and Jason Kendall.

The Mets are still evaluating their offseason plan and had organizational meetings yesterday. They have not ruled out pursuing Alex Rodriguez, though multiple obstacles remain on that front.

Three more Mets filed for free agency yesterday - Sandy Alomar Jr., Mike DiFelice and Aaron Sele.

The biggest Met who hasn't filed yet is Tom Glavine.

Posada will remain a Yankee....