Wagner in tune with Mets
NEW YORK—
Billy Wagner became the latest star to join the Mets, reaching a preliminary agreement yesterday on a $43 million, four-year contract only hours after first baseman Carlos Delgado was introduced at a Shea Stadium news conference.
Considered by many the top reliever on the free- agent market, Wagner saved 38 games for Philadelphia last season. The Phillies offered just more than $30 million ( all figures U. S.) over three years to retain the 34year- old left- hander, whose fastball reaches 100 mph.
“ Three years we felt very comfortable with. Going to a fourth year as the Mets went to, we didn’t feel that comfortable,” said Pat Gillick, the Phillies general manager and former Blue Jays executive. Mets spokesperson Jay Horwitz declined comment. Wagner must pass a physical, which is likely to take place today, before the deal can be completed. The four- time all- star will receive $ 10.5 million in each of the next four seasons, a high- ranking baseball official said. The Mets have an $8 million club option for 2010 with a $ 1 million buyout. If exercised, the deal would be worth $50 million over five seasons.
Wagner’s average salary will be the highest for a reliever, topping the $ 10.5 million Mariano Rivera is earning from the New York Yankees. Earlier in the day, the Jays finalized the largest overall deal for a relief pitcher, a $47 million, five- year contract with B. J. Ryan. Wagner went 4- 3 with a 1.51 ERA and 87 strikeouts in 75 appearances this year. He has 284 career saves.