Mets rumors: New York 'really unlikely' to sign Jose Valverde

It was reported yesterday that the door remained open for a deal, but it's "really, really unlikely" free agent reliever and former Detroit Tigers closer Jose Valverde signs with the New York Mets, according to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York.

Ken Davidoff of The New York Post reported yesterday that the Mets had left the door still slightly ajar for a possible Valverde signing. However, following this initial report, several others came out disputing the likelihood of an agreement being reached between New York and Valverde.

Related: Mets open to signing Valverde?

The Mets expect Valverde to sign a major league deal elsewhere before the start of the regular season, according to Andy Martino of The New York Daily News. If free agent is unable to do so, they may consider him later, but "not so much now."

Marc Carig of News day confirms that Valverde is "on the Mets' radar," but a source tells him that the team will only pursue the right-hander if there's another spring training injury and a need arises. Carig characterized New York's interest in Valverde as "not an active pursuit."

With Frank Francisco's injury, the Mets are currently poised to enter the season with Bobby Parnell as closer, with recently signed free agent Brandon Lyon and Josh Edgin acting as setup men.