Rubin: Mets Talks with Curtis Granderson Intensifying

UPDATE, 8:34 AM:

On the heels of Adam Rubin’s report, other national and local writers are chiming in on the Mets/Granderson talks.

Jon Heyman of CBS Sports says the Mets and Granderson are talking about deals ranging from three to five years, and that Granderson is likely seeking $17 million annually.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports says the Mets are “moving forward” on Granderson and have “cooled” on Nelson Cruz.

Andy Martino of the New York Daily News says the Mets are optimistic a deal with Granderson will get done.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE:

According to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York, the Mets’ talks with free agent outfielder Curtis Granderson are intensifying.  Writes Rubin:

"Talks between the New York Mets and Curtis Granderson‘s representatives intensified late Tuesday, and a source familiar with the negotiations told ESPNNewYork.com the organization is negotiating to land the free-agent outfielder on a three-year deal.A second source said late Tuesday night that the sides are talking, but nothing is imminent.The Mets may ultimately concede and guarantee a fourth year in order to reel in the outfielder, a source said."

It was confirmed yesterday that the Mets had met with Granderson the day prior, and subsequently reported by many that Granderson was seeking a four year deal (while the Mets preferred to limit any contract for Granderson to three years).

Sep 13, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; New York Yankees right fielder

(14) bunts the ball during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Today’s report is the first indication that the Mets are willing to guarantee a fourth year to Granderson in an effort to close the deal.

Thoughts:

Granderson, who turns 33 in March, is the Mets’ best bet if they’re not inclined to bid heavily for fellow free agent outfielder Shin-Soo Choo.

Jacoby Ellsbury got a stupid amount of money, Carlos Beltran appears destined to return to the American League where he can serve as a DH on occasion, and Nelson Cruz is an all hit, no field guy coming off a PED suspension (who’s also asking for a crazy amount of money).

Granderson missed the majority of last season with two separate freak injuries – both of which occurred when he was hit by pitches.

Before last season, Granderson’s home run totals the previous four seasons were 30, 24, 41, and 43 respectively.

Some of that 40 home run power will likely evaporate if Granderson plays 81 home games in Citi Field, but there’s no reason to believe he can’t be a 30 homer a year guy.

If the Mets can close the deal with Granderson, they can then shift their attention to their other huge need – shortstop.

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