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When the Mets signed left-handed relief pitcher Antonio Bastardo to a two-year deal last week, it created a logjam on the 40-man roster. That was cleared up when the team designated right-handed reliever Carlos Torres for assignment, which means the Mets have a limited amount of time to either trade him or place him on waivers.
Chris Cotillo reported on Thursday night that multiple teams have interest in giving something to the Mets in exchange for Torres, who is known for his ability to pitch a ton of innings out of the bullpen without his arm falling off. Early this morning, Adam Rubin said that it's more likely that Torres ends up on waivers.
Although the Mets entertained trading reliever Carlos Torres, it turns out there has not been significant progress toward a deal. Instead, Torres is now projected to end up on waivers. He was designated for assignment when the Mets needed a 40-man roster spot for Antonio Bastardo. Given Torres is a capable reliever due to earn a modest $1.05 million, it's difficult to foresee him clearing waivers.
Although New York would rather grab a low-level prospect or perhaps some cash in exchange for the durable Torres, the team only has so much time to work out a deal. If a trade can't be worked out, the Mets would place the hurler on waivers and hope that he passes through so that he can rejoin the club as minor league depth.
However, Rubin thinks there is a better chance that another team will claim Torres and his reasonable salary, adding him to its own 40-man roster without having to give the Mets anything in exchange.