What Should Be The Mets First Free Agent SIgning?

2010 has already begun. 2009 is history. Yes, it has been a disappointing season, but one will wonder what could have been if they were healthy this year.

Realistically speaking, they might be in second place instead of fourth, probably winning only about 87 games. What should be there first signing?

Easy. Should not be as expensive as the top tier free agents, though he will cost a bit of dough. The answer? Pitching coach Dave Duncan.

There are reports out of St. Louis that Duncan is unhappy with the direction of the Cardinals. The St. Louis Post Dispatch - 8-30-2009 states that Duncan has become unhappy with the organization for a few things:

• Feels that the press is St. Louis was behind the trade of his son Chris to the Boston Red Sox. Said Duncan, "Chris was not shown respect. The stuff he dealt with, the stuff he heard and was subjected to ... I don't know of any player in this town who went through what he experienced in the time I've been here."
• Is upset that the franchise has developed a a minor-league pitching philosophy independent of his and bullpen coach Marty Mason's input.

On his status for next season, Duncan provided, "I'm not ready to make that decision right now. When I do, it will be a personal decision, not a professional. Alot of factors will help determine what I ultimately do. That decision isn't going to be made now, but it will be made at the end of the season."

Once the season ends, the Mets should be on the phone immediately. Duncan has a proven record with the ChiSox, A's, and now the Cardinals - as pitching coach. He in no way is attached to Tony LaRussa, who he has been with since Chicago. Duncan could be the biggest acquisition the Mets make during the off-season. It certainly an option that must be pursued.

Source: Mike Silva - NY Baseball Digest