Though the Mets continue to insist they have confidence that Bobby Parnell can be healthy and effective as a closer, they’re still weighing the possibility of making a significant addition to the bullpen with Fernando Rodney, but one team official called the chances of landing him a “long shot.”
The Mets have had conversations with Rodney’s agent as they look at available relief pitchers and after losing out to the Rays on Grant Balfour Thursday, a team official said nothing had developed yet.
“I’m not sure there’s a fit there,” the official said.
Another team official echoed that.
“We’ve talked about him, but I don’t think we’re ready to take any action on it yet,” the source said. “He’s been on our radar as someone we’re interested in.”
Still, after showing they are prepared to make at least a reasonable investment on another reliever by making an offer to Balfour — only to be jilted for Tampa Bay — the addition of Rodney isn’t out of the question.
Rodney had been the Rays closer before Balfour was signed to replace him. Though reports surfaced Thursday that Rodney was nearing a deal with Baltimore, that didn’t happen. The two sides continue to talk.
Seattle also is reportedly interested.
By looking at a pair of veteran and reasonably expensive pitchers with closing experience, the future of Parnell, coming off neck surgery, would seem to be murky at best.
Another team official, though, said that wasn’t the case.
“We haven’t lost faith in him,” the official said. “Grant Balfour is another guy who could pitch late in games and that’s something we need.”
The official said Parnell continued to feel good.
“His health has been great,” he said. “He’s been throwing the ball really well and there’s no reason to believe he won’t be ready for Opening Day.”