'The Mets do not view this offseason as the time to commit significant money to outfielders,' according to Martino's sources, so it is unlikely the they will offer even a two-year contract.
Martino says next year's payroll will likely be just north of $90 million, which is similar to what Adam Rubin reported for ESPN New York last month. As such, Martino believes Sandy Alderson will try to build next year's outfield through trades.
However, last month, during a Q&A with ticket plan holders at Citi Field, Alderson said next year's payroll will be around $100 million, 'if not higher.'
Martino's sources also relay that the team sees Jordanny Valdespin as a useful utility player; the team would like to retain Scott Hairston; and, while they hope Matt den Dekker, Juan Lagares and Cesar Puello will develop into major leaguers, 'none of those players to be ready by the spring.'
