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Wednesday, 11 November 2009 18:03 |
By Dennis Lowe
The New York Mets declined to exercise its option on set-up reliever J.J. Putz’s contact for the 2010 season, therefore saving the ballclub $8.1 million, yet leaving more uncertainty to an already suspect bullpen. Putz became the sixth Mets player to seek free agency.
 In January of 2007, Putz signed a three-year, $13.1 million with the Seattle Mariners which carried an option for the 2010 season at $9.1 million or a $1 million buyout provision. The Mets chose to exercise the buyout leaving the team in search of a new eight-inning reliever.
During the 2009 season, Putz compiled a 1-4 record with 2 saves and a lofty 5.22 ERA while appearing in only 29 games. In 29.1 innings pitched, Putz struck out 19 batters, although he also walked 19 batters.
Putz, who started the season sharp, was also bitten by the injury bug. On June 9th, surgery was performed on the pitcher’s right arm to remove a bone spur. He was then also diagnosed in August with a minor tear in his medial collateral ligament, however doctors assured the Mets it would not affect his pitching.
Putz, who turns 33 this off-season, could re-sign with the Mets and the team may entertain that possibility. Starting pitching and the bullpen will once again be a priority for general manager Omar Minaya.
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