Lefty reliever Tim Byrdak, in his typically humorous fashion, indicated he has not yet received an invitation back to the Mets -- even on a minor-league deal. Byrdak tweeted:
@AdamRubinESPN @coribald only offer so far is for a peanut vender, even they want me to prove I still have the arm to deliver!#dissapointed
— Tim Byrdak (@Givemethelefty) January 17, 2014
Byrdak, 40, returned to the Mets in September after missing most of the season recovering from surgery on his left shoulder to repair a torn anterior capsule. He produced a 7.71 ERA in 4 2/3 innings.
The Mets would be well-served bringing in some lefty reliever on a minor-league contract to camp. Otherwise, they would be entirely dependent upon Scott Rice and Josh Edgin until prospects Jack Leathersich and Adam Kolarek -- both of whom will be in camp -- are deemed ready for the majors.
Lefty free-agent relievers remaining available include Eric O'Flaherty, Oliver Perez, Jose Mijares, Mike Gonzalez and Rich Hill.
