Luis Castillo's fate key to offseason moves for New York Mets

It's day 16 after the Yankees won the World Series, which means the Mets finally can begin bidding on free agents and reestablishing their relevance. That, or begin frustrating their fans anew.

On the shopping list: a catcher to replace Brian Schneider; a power upgrade in left field; a second baseman if Luis Castillo can be traded; rotation help; an eighth-inning reliever, and a second lefthander in the bullpen to pair with Pedro Feliciano. All must be done while watching the bottom line.

"We'll just continue to follow up," GM Omar Minaya said of conversations already under way.

The Mets are not expected to make first-day offers or immediately set up face-to-face meetings to wine-and-dine free agents. Similarly, on the trade front, no quick-strike deal is expected.  Continue