Mets lay groundwork in productive GM Meetings

Though this week's General Managers Meetings in Orlando, Fla., lacked any big moves, Mets general manager Sandy Alderson came away feeling pleased with how the week played out for his organization.

Speaking on Thursday morning following Wednesday's conclusion of the GM Meetings, Alderson confirmed that the Mets met with only one player in person this week. The Mets reportedly sat down with shortstop Jhonny Peralta during their stay at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, though Alderson said the Mets have yet to extend any offers. Aside from Peralta, the Mets this week initiated talks with a number of other teams and agents.

"We met with some clubs, we met with some agents, laid some groundwork," Alderson said. "[We] had some phone calls; some agents didn't attend these meetings. We made progress."

Alderson didn't disclose exactly how many players or teams the Mets had discussions with, but he did acknowledge the organization is fully prepared to improve the team this offseason in multiple areas.

"We're looking to improve the team," Alderson said. "There are a number of holes, a variety of combinations that might work for us. Given that factor, there will be lots of free agents we would consider in the right combination."

For now, Alderson said the Mets' main focus is on improving the team through free agency. That could change, however, depending on how the free-agent market plays out over the next month leading up to December's Winter Meetings. As for this week, the lone signing to stem from the GM Meetings was the Athletics on Wednesday agreeing to a one-year deal with veteran utility infielder Nick Punto.

"I think that it's possible a number of factors will lead to more trades," Alderson said when asked if the slow-developing free-agent market could result in an increase in trades. "The inflation in the free-agent market, or potential inflation, as well as Draft choice compensation and those kinds of things. If we are to see an uptick in trade activity, it will be a little bit later, unless clubs conclude as early as now that the free-agent market just isn't as attractive or [that it's] too expensive."