MLB

Tatis talk closing door on Delgado for Mets

PORT ST. LUCIE — Who’s on first?

The answer to that question for the Mets is Daniel Murphy, but another name might soon be added to the mix.

According to a baseball source, general manager Omar Minaya is deep into negotiations with Fernando Tatis for a return engagement — and could have a deal complete within a matter of days.

That development would seem to eliminate the possibility of Carlos Delgado returning to the Mets next season, as Tatis has been told by Minaya that he is wanted as part of a first-base platoon with Murphy.

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Tatis made $1.7 million last season for the Mets and seeks a comparable 2010 contract. The Rockies and Mariners also have expressed interest.

The source said Minaya spoke to Tatis’ agent, Gary Goodman, yesterday and wants an answer soon. Tatis, who has a long history with Minaya, recently told friends his preference is to play for the Mets.

The 35-year-old Tatis, who started 32 games at first last season, hit .282 with eight homers and 48 RBIs, but also incurred the wrath of Mets’ fans by hitting into 13 double plays in 340 at-bats.

Delgado recently completed his season in the Puerto Rican winter league, and did not play enough first base for the Mets to get an accurate read on his physical condition, eight months removed from hip surgery. It has left the Mets hesitant to seriously pursue Delgado.

Before the Mets concluded a three-day, voluntary mini-camp yesterday, manager Jerry Manuel was asked if he felt comfortable going with Murphy as the primary first baseman should the organization take a pass on Delgado.

“I think Murph can do enough that we feel we can survive,” Manuel said. “He has some range at first base and starts the double play real well.

“There are some things that we can do, but the other pieces that we have in place are going to have to perform to their offensive capabilities for us to get away with not relying solely on what Carlos Delgado would have brought to the team.”

➤ Kelvim Escobar was a no-show for the mini-camp after initially committing, but Manuel had no qualms with the veteran pitcher’s decision to skip the voluntary workouts.

“Johan [Santana], it was important for me to see him and Oliver Perez,” Manuel said. “I really wanted to see those guys.”

The manager said he was impressed by both. Perez departed yesterday, saying he was headed home to Arizona for the continuation of an offseason conditioning program that has him 10 pounds lighter than last season.

“I’ll be working out [today],” Perez said.

mpuma@nypost.com