By ZACH DOLEIDEN
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Despite the latest medical setback for incumbent Mets’ closer Frank Francisco, the team does not appear any closer to bringing in reliever Jose Valverde.
Francisco, who struggled at times
to close out games last year, underwent surgery in December to remove a bone
spur from his throwing elbow and reported to Spring Training with inflammation
in the joint and now questions surround his Opening Day status.
Not happy with Francisco’s conditioning,
rumors swirled earlier this offseason that the 34-year-old Valverde was drawing
serious interest from the Mets to become the team’s new closer.
The veteran right hander finished
3-4 with 35 saves in 40 chances last season for the Tigers before losing his role
as closer during the playoffs.
At this point, Terry Collins and
the Mets’ brass seem content heading into Spring Training with Bobby Parnell holding
the closer role while Josh Edgin and Brandon Lyon will be the primary setup options.
If Parnell struggles in this role
as he has when given similar opportunities in the past, or if the bullpen
suffers any significant injuries during camp, Valverde could receive more
serious consideration.
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