Mets rumors: New York 'optimistic' about Scott Hairston return

The New York Mets are optimistic about their chances of re-signing free-agent outfielder Scott Hairston, reports Adam Rubin of ESPN:

Free agent Scott Hairston told ESPNNewYork.com on Monday he believed a reunion with the Mets was "probable."

Mets insiders actually feel similarly optimistic, although there are no assurances.

The 32-year-old Hairston is looking for more than a bench role next season, and the Mets may be one of the few interested teams with regular playing time on the table for the veteran. New York has several outfield options on their roster but none of them has claim on a starting role.

A rumor surfaced yesterday afternoon that the Detroit Tigers had offered Hairston a two-year contract, but Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski was quick to refute the claim.

Hairston hit .263/.299/.504 with a career-high 20 home runs in 134 games for the Mets last season, splitting time between all three outfield positions. The righty hitter has performed significantly better against left-handed pitching in his career, posting a slugging percentage nearly 100 points higher against southpaws.