The Mets, who are reported to be the front-runners for Reds outfielder Jay Bruce, also are keeping their eyes out for other options should they not be able to land the three-time All-Star. MLB.com's Jon Morosi reports New York is one of a handful of teams showing interest in Rays infielder/outfielder Steve Pearce.
The club has not commented on the report.
The Mets were reported to show interest in Pearce on Saturday, but MLB.com's Bill Chastain has gotten the impression that the Rays' price for dealing Pearce would be high. The Indians also have been linked to the veteran.
The 33-year-old Pearce, a right-handed batter, is hitting .309/.388/.520 with 10 home runs in 60 games this season. He's owed the rest of his $4.75 million salary and will become a free agent at season's end.