Report: Scott Hairston and the Mets both optimistic about reunion

Scott Hairston told ESPN New York that he felt a return to the Mets was "probable" on Monday afternoon, and today there are reports that the Mets are also optimistic about a reunion. After a 20 homerun season, Hairston was rumored to be looking for a two-year deal with a good chance of a regular starting role, but at this point it appears that he's having a hard time finding that sort of option on the open market.

At the moment, Hairston's best chance at a starting role may actually be with a return to the Mets. beyond a general lack of depth, the Mets also could use some additional depth from the right side of the plate. Bringing back Scott Hairston on a reasonable one-year deal would seem like an excellent move for all parties involved.

Andy Martino also mentioned the ongoing trade discussions the Mets are having in search of outfield help, indicating that they may be looking to move some of their lower ceiling pitching prospects instead of moving Jon Niese or R.A. Dickey:

Sources: Metstalking about getting OF in trades that would move pitching prospects like Logan Verrett, Darin Gorski, not Dickey/Niese.

— Andy Martino (@MartinoNYDN) December 4, 2012

Obviously these guys won't bring back the same caliber players that Dickey or Niese would, but if Alderson could find a capable outfielder without using either of his best TRAID chips, that would be fantastic. Who doesn't love the winter meetings?