Mets rumors: Michael Bourn discussions ongoing

The New York Mets are still in play on free-agent outfielder Michael Bourn, but could decide to just go forward with the outfield they have, reports Jorge Castillo of the Newark Star-Ledger:

Alderson wouldn't go beyond saying there is "ongoing discussion" between the team and Bourn.

"Realistically, the outfield situation is set with that possible exception," Alderson said. "My expectation is we'll go into spring training with what we have unless something were to transpire in the free-agent market.

The Mets are reportedly close to a deal with right-hander Brandon Lyon -- which would be the last bullpen move of the winter -- leaving "bolster outfield" as the one thing left unchecked on the club's offseason to-do list.

New York has been looking for a way to add Bourn for several weeks now. Mets' third baseman David Wright even recently made a recruiting call to him, per Adam Rubin of ESPN, telling the outfielder that he'd be "a great addition" to the club.

Related: The Mets' Outfield isn't Looking Too Good...

Of course, the path to signing Bourn is not without its complications. The Mets have petitioned Major League Baseball to protect their No. 11 pick in the 2013 draft, but the league has said they will not come to a decision until a deal with the qualified free agent in question -- i.e. Bourn -- is agreed upon. It is believed that Bourn -- a Scott Boras client -- is seeking a five-year contract, and that the Mets are unwilling to go more than three years with him.

At the moment, New York's 2013 outfield will be fielded by some variety of not-great options, both old and new. Incumbents Lucas Duda, Kirk Nieuwenhuis, Mike Baxter, and Jordany Valdespin probably have first shot at the outfield spots, but new additions Collin Cowgill, Andrew Brown, and Marlon Byrd could work their way into a roster spot with a nice showing in camp.