Free agent shortstop Stephen Drew remains on the radar of the New York Mets, and the team has kept up discussions with his agent Scott Boras, but reports indicate that a deal with the Mets and Drew is "possible, not probable."
According to ESPN, the Mets have kept talks alive involving Drew with Boras, but the team doesn't expect to land the free agent shortstop but won't totally rule anything out. It is widely expected that Ruben Tejada will be the Mets shortstop when the season begins in April, but the team hasn't totally closed the door on the possibility of landing Drew.
According to the report, team officials remain divided over how valuable of an asset Drew would be to the team. ESPN reports the Mets would prefer to sign Drew to a one or two-year deal at the right monetary figure, but wouldn't want to go three years or beyond with the shortstop.
According to the report, Drew is looking for at least a three-year deal and if he were to accept a short-term deal, he'd likely end up back with the Boston Red Sox--where he won the World Series last year.
The Mets have improved their outfield with the outside signings of Curtis Granderson and Chris Young and have also established their rotation without Matt Harvey by acquiring Bartolo Colon, but it looks like their infield will remain intact.
The Mets first-round pick is protected, but the team gave up its second-round pick to the New York Yankees with the signing of Granderson and would forfeit its third-rounder to the Red Sox if it signs Drew.
It looks as though the Mets will go with Tejada at shortstop by the time it all settles. Tejada hit just .202 in 57 games with 10 RBIs last season and has been in some hot water with manager Terry Collins in the past.
ESPN reports Ike Davis--subject to trade rumors this offseason--will likely open camp on the Mets roster but may be dealt before the season starts meaning Lucas Duda would become their everyday first baseman.
Drew will turn 31 in March and hit .253 last season with 13 homers and 67 RBIs with Boston.
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