Mets Sign Jason Bay, Pending Physical

It is what all Mets fans such as myself and fellow WCWP member Jordan Lauterbach have been longing to hear.  Omar Minaya still has a pulse and has actually signed a big time free agent in Jason Bay who will now man left field in Citi Field for the blue and orange.  

Here is the report from Rotoworld: "According to WFAN's Mike Francessa, the Mets have signed Jason Bay and completion of the deal is only pending a physical. Mets sources have informed Francessa that Bay's contract will be finalized early next week.  It's not yet clear what the exact financial terms are, though the Mets latest rumored offer was worth $65 million over four years."

Bay, who is 31 years old, hit .267 with 36 home runs and 119 RBI's for the Boston Red Sox last year.  He also contributed a .384 OBP as well.  While the average needs to get up to around .280 for my satisfaction, no Mets fan should feel glum about this deal.  The one thing I am a bit weary about is Bay's interest level in playing in New York.  If the deal that is signed was the one the Mets have had on the table this entire time, questions will certainly arise about why Bay didn't sign weeks ago.  

UPDATE: Joel Sherman of the NY Post writes that Bay has a four-year, $66 million deal with a fifth-year vesting option.

Now, Minaya needs to hit the pitcher's market and see if he can add another starter.  I would target former Cardinals pitcher Joel Pinerio.  At 31 years old, he is coming off one of his best seasons going 15-12 with a 3.49 ERA.  He fits well at Citi Field being a fly ball pitcher and could fit nicely behind Santana.  Also, I would take a serious look at Ben Sheets, who when healthy can be a solid number two behind Santana.

-Matt Soldano