According to Davidoff's source, the Mets view Valverde as 'a 5 out of 10.'
2:15 PM: If Valverde does not get a big league deal somewhere else, the Mets will consider him at a later date. (Martino, Daily News)
1:14 PM: A team insider says the chances of signing Valverde is 'really, really unlikely.' (Rubin, ESPN NY).
Matthew Cerrone, MetsBlog.com:
Sandy Alderson told media he was done acquiring relievers after finalizing a deal with Brandon Lyon, which is probably way the door is 'ajar,' in regards to signing Valverde, as Davidoff puts it'
By the way, Davidoff is persuasive, because I had little interest in Valverde. However, after reading his report, I'm intrigued. The thing is, Parnell was probably a better overall pitcher last year. It's Valverde's track record, though, that makes him worth considering, especially on a one-year contract. I'm on board, so long as it's for one year and Parnell is given a fair shot to win the closer's role away, because he's earned it and he's been told he's earned it ' and I don't see what that should change if Valverde strolls in to camp one day.
Michael Baron, MetsBlog.com:
He struggled last year and lost his job as closer late in the season, after what was a dominant 2011. Hitters started making more contact and his velocity dipped, but he still throws hard enough and he's been a colorful and intimidating closer in his career'
Feb. 3: The Mets are interested in Valverde, but unlikely to sign Francisco Rodriguez or Brian Wilson (Rubin, ESPN NY).
Feb. 3: The Tigers, Reds, Marlins and Blue Jays are all still looking for bullpen help (Cafardo, Boston Globe).
Statistics and information on Valverde...
Stats: Valverde, 34, went 3-4 with a 3.78 ERA in 71 games, having saved 35 games in 40 opportunities in 2012. He allowed 27 walks with 48 strikeouts in 69 innings last season.
Contract: Valverde earned $9 million in an option which was part of a two-year, $14 million deal he signed before the 2010 season.