Thole Winter Ball To End Early?

According to Mets Today, the Mets are considering requesting Thole to end his stint in the Venezuelan Winter League early.

After the abduction and return of former Mets pitcher Victor Zambrano's mother (24 Hours...November 9, 2009, 24 Hours...November 11, 2009), and the murder of his cousin, the Mets are concerned for the safety of their young catcher.

As reported in the NY Times:

We’re doing our due diligence regarding the entire situation,” Mets General Manager Omar Minaya said. “We’re looking into it to make sure Josh knows what’s going on and we know that he is safe.” The Mets have received reports that Thole is enjoying his time in Caracas without any concerns about his safety, and that he hopes to stay through his scheduled departure date, Dec. 8.

In a situation like this, with all the unrest that has been on going in Venezuela, erring on the side of caution is a must. Thankfully Victor Zambrano's mother was returned unharmed, but how ofter and how much should we trust safety in such a volatile situation?