Freddy Garcia’s signing to a minor-league deal was made official by the Mets yesterday. The 33-year-old Garcia is expected to compete for the fifth spot in the rotation during spring training.
“He’s a big game pitcher who has had great success in the postseason and we feel has a good opportunity to contribute to our success this year,” Mets general manager Omar Minaya said.
Garcia has pitched for the Mariners, White Sox, Phillies and Tigers during his 10-year career.
The Mets also signed outfielder Cory Sullivan to a one-year contract and added him to the 40-man roster.
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The Mets have placed an offer on the table for free-agent left-hander Oliver Perez, according to SI.com, and are hopeful to have an answer in the coming days regarding their prime pitching target.
The Mets are believed to have improved their reported original offer, which was for about $30 million over three years. But details on the latest offer aren’t known.
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In a continuing effort to collect spare, lefty-hitting outfielders, the Mets have signed Rob Mackowiak to a minor league contract, the Post has learned.
If Mackowiak makes the team he will have a base salary of $600,000 and he has a chance to earn an additional $200,000 in bonuses depending on plate appearances between 250 and 500. – Joel Sherman
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Free agent righty Ben Sheets met again this week with the Rangers.