Days after hearing that Billy Wagner would waive his no trade clause to play for a contender, he has decided to invoke his no trade clause to remain with the Mets.
"He feels he has a better chance lasting a month in a less competitive environment than perhaps two months in a pennant race and playoffs," a source said.
Wagner would only accept the trade if the Red Sox agreed to decline his 8 million dollar club option and then not offer him arbitration, meaning the team that signs him next would not lose a draft pick for signing him
Instead, he will remain with the Mets as he works his arm back into form for the 2010 season. Expect the Mets to offer him arbitration so they receive two draft picks for the impending Type-A free agent. Wagner is interested in being a closer again, and could draw interest from the Brewers, Cubs, and Astros, among others.