Mets rumors: NY interested in Cody Ross

The New York Mets have joined the ranks of the teams interested in free-agent outfielder Cody Ross, reports Mike Puma of the New York Post:

After departing last week’s Winter Meetings with nothing more than a signed contract from David Wright, the Mets continue to actively pursue free-agent help and are "kicking the tires" on outfielder Cody Ross, according to multiple sources.

It comes as options in the club’s price range such as Ryan Ludwick, Nate Schierholtz and Mark Reynolds (whom the Mets considered despite his limited outfield experience) have signed elsewhere in the past several days.

The Mets have been on the lookout for outfield help all winter, and Ross would definitely be an upgrade if the club wants to pay his asking price. The 31-year-old is reportedly looking for a deal in the range of three years and $25 million, which could eventually turn the Mets away -- the club is not looking to add an outfielder for more than two years -- but for now Ross remains an option for New York.

Ross has also been linked to suburban rivals New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners recently, but no offers appear to be on the table from anyone. The Yankees' interest in Ross could heat up if the club does indeed sign Ichiro Suzuki this week -- as the club would be without a right-handed hitting outfielder -- but his desire for a multi-year deal could be a problem there as well.