Mets in talks with Sheets

A source with ties to the Mets’ organization is confirming discussions between the team and starting pitcher Ben Sheets. Sheets who when healthy is one of the best pitchers in the game is believed to be looking for a two year deal with an option for a third. Estimates are at a base salary of $8 million plus incentives per year.

This is a no brainer for the Mets. Boras’ price for Oliver Perez is a joke, a contract of 4 years $60 million is absurd considering Perez has a history of inconsistent pitching, control problems, and the fact that he is a head case. If Sheets can be brought in with an incentive laden contract for less money and a shorter term then Perez he is worth the gamble.

Yes Sheets’ health is a concern, but the Mets have Jonathon Niese and Brandon Knight in Buffalo, plus Nelson Figueroa is expected to be invited to spring training. All three of these guys did a nice job filling in for the Mets last year, and Sheets who made 31 starts last and 24 the year before can be counted on for a decent number of starts. I’d much rather have a guy who hasn’t had an ERA over 4 since 2004, compared to Perez who had an ERA over 4 last year, and is no stranger to a 6+ ERA, not to mention Miller Park isn’t the pitcher friendly park that Shea was. This should be an obvious call for Omar.