Mets, Rodriguez Agree on Contract

One of the best free agents signed on Tuesday, as Francisco Rodriguez agreed to a three year deal with the New York Mets. The deal, which will be finalized if he passes his physical, is worth $37 million and expected to be passed on Wednesday.

Reports said that the Mets originally offered a two year, $24 million contract. The new deal was reached Tuesday morning at about 5 a.m.

Rodriguez was regarded one of the top free agents this winter. His 62 saves with the Los Angeles Angels this past season broke Bobby Thigpen's record of 57. Rodriguez had stated that he wanted a five year contract that would equal fellow closer Mariano Rivera, but realized that would not happen. Unhappy with the offer the Angels gave him, he tried free agency.

Paul Kinzer, Rodriguez's agent, accepted the deal because it was the closest to what he wanted. The Mets were also a great fit because they were in search for a closer, as Billy Wagner will be out for the upcoming season. They were also a big-market team, something Rodriguez stated he wanted.

Rodriguez has been the best closer in the MLB for the last couple of years. His 62 save season last year was not only a MLB record, but 18 saves higher than Jose Valverde, the closer with the second most saves. Over the past three seasons, Rodriguez has 149 saves - 31 saves higher than Trevor Hoffman, who is second with 118 and is the all-time saves leader.

The Mets, who were in negotiations with Brian Fuentes, Hoffman, and two other closers have ceased those talks. Rodriguez's contract has an option for 2012 that could be guaranteed based on his performance. One reason he could not receive a five year contract was due to closers often blowing out their arm due to throwing so hard. The average career for a closer is only a couple seasons. Rodriguez turns 27 next month.

The Mets have said they are still going to be active in free agency, as they wish to sign another pitcher. This time, they wish to find a starter. Reports have said they will meet with Oliver Perez and try to re-sign him. Still, with the addition of Rodriguez, the premier pitcher in this year's free agency behind only CC Sabathia, will certainly boost their pitching staff.

Last season, teams expressed their worry for him as his violent pitching motion and drop in velocity suggested an upcoming injury or early retirement. Last season, he ended up developing a changeup to counter this possibility.

Many big name free agents are still available, including Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Mark Teixeira, and Manny Ramirez.

Sources: Mets, K-Rod Agree To Contract, ESPN.com