Mets Sign Julio Franco

The Mets signed veteran first baseman Julio Franco to a two year $2.2 million contract. This gives the Mets a couple of things at a fair price. We get some insurance at first base, and we get a solid right handed pinch hitter. In addition, you get a veteran prescence in the dug out that'll basically give Willie Randolph a second bench coach.

The Mets also signed Jose Valentin to a one year, $900k deal. Here we get a left handed bat coming off of the bench, and Valentin can fill in just about anywhere.

So the Mets are filling in the back end of their 25 man roster with some solid veterans. Not a bad strategy.