PORT ST. LUCIE — Fernando Martinez probably doesn’t have much future in left field for the Mets, so the team will start evaluating him in center.
Jason Bay is signed through at least 2013, with a vesting option for a fifth season, blocking Martinez from taking his natural position anytime soon. In center, Carlos Beltran is signed through 2011.
“The one thing I was impressed with Fernando last year was he did a play a decent center field last year when we were forced to play him out there,” Jerry Manuel said. “I think center field is probably easier because everything is right in front of you.”
The 21-year-old arrived at spring training last year regarded as the crown jewel of the farm system, but his stock dropped after hitting .176 in 29 games for the Mets in 2009. His season was curtailed by a torn medial meniscus of the right knee.
Martinez has a shot at starting the season as the Mets’ fifth outfielder, but is a more likely candidate for Triple-A Buffalo.
* Rod Barajas passed his physical and is expected in camp today. The Mets will have to make a 40-man roster move to accommodate the 34-year-old, who figures to be handed the starting catching job.
* Angel Pagan, who will battle Gary Matthews Jr. for the starting center field job until Beltran returns, knows he has to overcome the perception he’s a bad base runner.
“That is something from the past and I’m looking forward to keep learning,” Pagan said. “Nobody is perfect.”
Pagan said he doesn’t view Matthews as competition.
“Having Matthews is a great opportunity for me to keep learning from a great outfielder,” Pagan said. “At the end, [Manuel] and his staff will make a decision if I’m going to be the starter or Gary is going to be the starter.”
* Luis Castillo is a candidate to bat leadoff should Jose Reyes be shifted to third in the lineup. Castillo could bat second or eighth.
“I would like to know, but I don’t have any control of it,” Castillo said.
The issue likely won’t be resolved until late in camp. Pagan likely would bat leadoff if he emerges as the starter in center.