The Mets’ offseason work still encompasses more than resolving R.A. Dickey’s status.
Though the veteran knuckleballer’s future remains high on the agenda, so does evaluating other pieces that potentially could help the Mets in 2013.
After departing last week’s Winter Meetings with nothing more than a signed contract from David Wright, the Mets continue to actively pursue free-agent help and are “kicking the tires” on outfielder Cody Ross, according to multiple sources.
It comes as options in the club’s price range such as Ryan Ludwick, Nate Schierholtz and Mark Reynolds (whom the Mets considered despite his limited outfield experience) have signed elsewhere in the past several days.
Ludwick received a two-year deal worth $15 million from the Reds. Reynolds is getting $6 million for next season from the Indians, and Schierholtz will receive $2.25 million from the Cubs.
The 31-year-old Ross initially was seeking a three-year deal in the $25 million range to remain with the Red Sox, but it’s unlikely the Mets would go beyond two years with any free agent.
Ross also has been linked to the Mariners and Yankees, among others. But the Mariners also reportedly have interest in Josh Hamilton and the Yankees have talked to Scott Hairston, who still remains on the Mets’ radar, according to sources.
Ross resurrected his career by hitting .267 with 22 homers and 81 RBIs last season with the Red Sox. The Mets view him as a potential everyday right fielder and an upgrade over Hairston, who is still largely regarded within the organization as a platoon player.
The Mets aren’t closer to trading Dickey than they were last week, according to a team source, and in the absence of a contract extension still plan to keep the NL Cy Young Award winner at least to start 2013.
Dickey is scheduled to dress as an elf today, along with Ike Davis, and help Santa (John Franco) distribute presents to 100 Queens school children at Citi Field. It will be Dickey’s first appearance representing the Mets this offseason, perhaps an indication there won’t be a divorce this winter.