PORT ST. LUCIE — The Mets still have about $2 million in their budget, but are in no rush to spend the money until they identify their needs.
A club source told The Post yesterday that team brass has outlined various scenarios that will determine how the money is spent. The caution stems from the fact the Mets must ensure they have a healthy Johan Santana before spending on another outfielder or backup catcher.
If Santana is not able to answer the bell for Opening Day or shortly thereafter, the Mets will almost certainly look to acquire another starting pitcher, the source said, instead of giving the spot to Miguel Batista or Chris Schwinden.
The Mets are closely monitoring the Nationals, who have a glut of starting pitching and could make John Lannan or Tom Gorzelanny available.
A healthy Santana would allow the Mets to allocate their money elsewhere. Though outfielder Rick Ankiel recently signed a minor league deal with the Nationals, there is a belief he could be available at the end of spring training. But if a lefty-swinging outfielder in Mets camp were to emerge — perhaps Adam Loewen or Mike Baxter — the team might look for another catcher.
The source said Ivan Rodriguez remains in contact with the club — he spoke to a Mets official as recently as 10 days ago — and has been told he could become a consideration as a backup to Josh Thole.
* Santana had a long-toss session yesterday and is scheduled to throw batting practice tomorrow. He would then have an additional light bullpen session over the weekend before starting against the Cardinals on Tuesday in a Grapefruit League game.
* Manager Terry Collins indicated that reliever Manny Acosta likely has already earned a roster spot based on his performance last season. Frank Francisco, Jon Rauch, Ramon Ramirez and Tim Byrdak are also assured spots. Among those fighting for the final two spots are Batista, Bobby Parnell, D.J. Carrasco, Pedro Beato, Daniel Herrera and Garrett Olson.
* Byrdak wore a Hulk Hogan costume and entertained teammates yesterday by pretending he was the legendary wrestler.