Billy Wagner?

[Invader3K]

Assuming neither Gagne or Turnbow can regain their Major League form, would the Brewers go out and get yet another veteran reliever, if they are still in contention around the All Star break?

 

Billy Wagner could be available. Yes, he's scuffled a bit lately, but I think part of it is the messy situation with the Mets right now. He's been very vocal about his problems with the team, and the Mets seem to be in free fall mode right now. Of course, there are constant rumors that Willie Randolph is going to get canned...if so, you have to imagine the Mets might look to deal some of their more expensive pieces and rebuild for next year. He's a bit pricy...making about 10 million per year, if I'm not mistaken.

 

Thoughts?

[kramnoj]

Of course, there are constant rumors that Willie Randolph is going to get canned...if so, you have to imagine the Mets might look to deal some of their more expensive pieces and rebuild for next year.

 

I don't think that's the way it is going to work. If Willie get's fired, it's because the Mets think they still have a chance and that Willie isn't the right guy for them. Wagner is signed for $10.5 million next year and his 2010 option is only $8 million. That's actually below market for a top closer now. I don't see why the Mets would want to trade him unless they get a great player in return.

[twobrewers]

Closers always seems very expensive during the season - as many teams scramble to find that "last piece".

 

They usually trade a little cheaper in the winter.

 

Wagner would be a huge upgrade to the bullpen - but at a very hefty price. (At least a LaPorta or Gamel type)

[sheetskout]

The whole salary increase for top-end closers makes me nervous and is going to get worse.

 

I am not sure that Wagner's ego would let him go to a small-market town. (He loves to open his mouth)

[Oldcity]

I really don't see the Mets trading off parts, even if they should. At this point, though, they probably shouldn't even be thinking about it.

[Invader3K]

Well, that is the weird thing, they are only one game under .500 and have won 3 of their last 4 games, IIRC, but they just fired their manager. Maybe without the Willie distraction, they will settle down and continue to play winning baseball.