Agent: Pedro will 'definitely' pitch in '09

[redsoxrules]

Pedro Martinez, something of an afterthought in this year's free-agent pool, definitely plans to continue his career. And, according to his agent, he could do so back in the Mets' rotation.

Fernando Cuza, Martinez's agent, detailed the 36-year-old right-hander's plans in a phone interview with SI.com.

 

"He's definitely coming back," Cuza said. "He's got all the baggage behind him. He's ready to go get it. It'll be fun to see the old Pedro again."

 

That "old Pedro" hasn't been seen for three years, since he went 15-8 in 2005, the first season of the four-year contract he signed with the Mets as a free agent. Martinez went 17-15 in the last three years of the deal, beset by numerous physical and personal setbacks.

 

Cuza said several teams have already inquired about Martinez. While not identifying the Mets as one of them, the agent said, "I think the Mets are a possibility. They know him better than most. They know the condition he's in. They know about the personal problems that affected him last year. When Pedro's healthy, he's one of the best, and he's healthy."

 

Even after his struggles the last three seasons, Martinez has a career record of 214-99

 

I wonder what teams would be interested in him

[Cocos Disciples]

Not really a surprise. Someone has to take a flier on him.

[TheKilo]

I wonder what kind of deal he's looking for...one year deal loaded with incentives seems right up Theo's alley...

[Cocos Disciples]

I wonder what kind of deal he's looking for...one year deal loaded with incentives seems right up Theo's alley...

 

That seems like what he would want, but I don't see a Pedro-Sox reunion.

[TheKilo]

Depending on the deal, it may be wiser than committing 5/80 to Burnett of 4/48 for Lowe...especially if they feel Bowden/Buchholz/Bard cna develop next season.

[Cocos Disciples]

How much trust are you putting in him though? Is he the 2009 Colon or is he in the rotation?

 

He was pretty awful in 2008--was he playing hurt or is he just over the hill?

[PATS12RULE]

No way Theo signs him. Pedro no longer resembles a pitcher who could compete in the AL East. He might still be effective in the NL, and if he can figure a way to work better with his stuff, Jamie Moyer like, he could definitely help a team out. But I don't envision him being able to pitch competitively in the AL.

[Dojji]

He might be an interesting gamble on a Brad Penny contract.

[Keeper]

Do yourself a favor Pedro, and hang 'em up.

[ydeologi]

My fave player all time, but I hope he retires. Dominant as he was, it's hard to watch a second-rate Pedro. The last few years make for lousy numbers on an otherwise impressive resume...