Pudge Still on the Mets Radar?

David Lennon of Newsday is reporting the Mets are going to keep a close eye on the Puerto Rican WBC games as the on again off again interest in Ivan Rodriquez may be back on again.

According to Lennon’s source that is said to be familiar with the team’s thinking, Omar Minaya is concerned about the Mets catching depth. Ramon Castro, who hasn’t played in more than 52 games in each of the last three seasons, continues to be an injury concern after taking two trips to the dl last season. Although losing 15 pounds in the offseason

Pudge who has proven to be much more durable over his career is said to be a favorite of the Mets GM, and if he plays well in the WBC could be in a Mets uniform at its conclusion.

Batting form the right side, Pudge would be a good addition to the Mets bench, however its unclear how Manuel would manage to fit him in. The Mets have three spots on the 40- man roster left to fill but it’s unknown whether the Mets would carry three catchers on their roster. In order to use either Castro or Pudge as a pinch hitter they would need to have three catchers, and Castro could hit in times where the Mets need some extra power, while Pudge would be called upon when the Mets were looking for more of a base hit. Both player hit from the right side, while starter Brian Schneider hits from the left.