This only cites unnamed people "familiar with the Mets' thinking" so take it for what it's worth. Copying and pasting the interesting part... --------------------------- • Pedro Martinez is unlikely to return • No steps will be taken toward finding a more suitable -- read productive and reliable -- second baseman until the club has a sense it can deal expensive quasi-incumbent Luis Castillo. Also, Damion Easley, despite the production he provided at second base, is not likely to return. • Despite his strong showing this season and the plan to have him play second base in the Arizona Fall League, Daniel Murphy is most likely to be a platoon left fielder. • The club is quite aware the contract demands of Scott Boras client Oliver Perez are likely to be exorbitant. The Mets are interested in re-signing the potential free agent, but they already are asking, "At what price?" • The Mets still need at least one more starting pitcher -- and two if Perez bolts. And one will have to be a 200-innings guy. --------------------------- One year in and the Luis Castillo contract is already an albatross. Great.