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New York Mets general manager Sandy Alderson has "expressed serious concern" with Frank Francisco as his closer, and the team is looking into free agent right-hander Jose Valverde to compete for the position, according to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York.
Alderson is pursuing Jose Valverde to compete -- or more likely unseat -- Francisco as closer, a baseball source told ESPNNewYork.com.
If the Mets are to sign Valverde, a Scott Boras client, it would have to be on their terms, according to Rubin. This means it could resemble the contract the team agreed to with starting pitcher Shaun Marcum; a certain amount guaranteed with possible incentives added for games finished or saved.
More: Mets looking at big name relievers
New York is also considering bringing back Francisco Rodriguez, who saved 83 games for the club from 2009-11. Rubin admits a reunion between Rodriguez and the Mets is unlikely, as the Boras client is thought to be seeking a whopping $7 million despite his recent struggles.
The Mets have been tied to former San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson, but he is considered "very unlikely" to sign with the club, according to Rubin.
Whatever route the Mets decide to take in adding to their bullpen, they expect to make an addition before pitchers and catchers report 10 days from now. Beyond Valverde and Rodriguez, Rubin mentions other names that could potentially fit the profile New York is targeting, including Brandon Lyon and Kevin Gregg.