Mets Morning News: Bruce is back

Meet the Mets

Jay Bruce is a Met once again. The right fielder has reportedly signed a three-year deal worth $39 million. Re-signing the lefty is a start in the right direction for a team that has a few glaring holes.

Despite being a familiar face, Bruce fills a need in both the outfield and at first base.

Bruce’s career-high fly ball rate from last season makes him a reasonable signing for the Mets.

Sandy Alderson has a habit of waiting out the market, and for the second year in a row his patience was rewarded.

Of course Bruce is the Mets second free agent signing this offseason. With the addition of Anthony Swarzak, the Mets’ bullpen could be a real strength of this team.

The Mets could use infield help but should they take a look at Starlin Castro?

Johan Santana’s stats are comparable to Sandy Koufax’s for a five-year stretch, and Santana probably deserves a longer look from those voting for the Hall of Fame.

Agent Jason Wood, who represents Matt Reynolds, was fired by his agency after he was caught allegedly taping clients in the shower.

Around the National League East

Despite never playing a game for the Marlins yet, Starlin Castro already wants out of Miami.

The Phillies avoided arbitration with catcher Cameron Rupp.

Nationals’ prospect Erick Fedde could potentially crack their rotation this season.

Around Major League Baseball

There could be many factors contributing to the sluggish offseason, but one reason could be the lack of competitiveness within the divisions. The other reason could be collusion among the owners.

The Astros were reportedly close to landing Gerrit Cole but a deal was never finalized. The Yankees still remain in play to land the Pirates’ ace.

Yu Darvish alluded to a mystery team that is interested in signing him.

The Indians avoided arbitration with closer Cody Allen.

The Padres hired longtime Fangraphs writer Dave Cameron to help build a research and development department.

Yesterday at Amazin Avenue

Steve Sypa continued the countdown of the top 25 Mets’ prospects, and number nine is Tomas Nido.

Chris McShane wrote about how the Mets were going to focus on obtaining position players, and just a few hours later Jay Bruce was signed.

This Date in Mets History

Happy Birthday Rey Ordonez!