Mets decline Putz's option; reliever willing to return for less

The New York Mets will not exercise J.J. Putz's(notes) $8.6 million option, but the reliever is willing to return on a cheaper, incentive-laden deal, Putz's agent, Craig Landis, tells the New York Post.

Putz was 1-4 with a 5.22 ERA in 29 appearances as a Met, giving up 29 hits while walking 19 and striking out 19 in 29 1/3 innings. He did not pitch after June 4 because of bone chips in his right elbow. The Post report says the Mets cited "health concerns" when they told Putz his option would not be picked up.

With Francisco Rodriguez(notes) entrenched as the Mets' closer, Putz would have to accept a setup role in New York. Putz was the Seattle Mariners' closer before being traded to the Mets last December in a three-team, 12-player deal.

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