The Mets’ primary competition for free-agent pitcher Kyle Lohse has dropped out of the bidding.
According to Phillies assistant GM Ruben Amaro, Philadelphia’s refusal to go beyond three years for the right-hander ended their pursuit of Lohse, who finished last season in Philly.
It’s believed the Mets have made an offer to the 29-year-old for four years, but it’s not known if it is for the $10 million Per he is seeking.
“We talked to [agent Scott] Boras a few times and from all indications it looked like it would take four years,” Amaro said. “We let him know that we wouldn’t go higher than three. He indicated he could get four, and we bowed out gracefully”
Mets GM Omar Minaya wasn’t available for comment about the Mets’ offer.
With Carlos Silva talking to the Mariners and Livan Hernandez still unsigned, Lohse might be the best free-agent option available to Minaya, who likely will be interested if the A’s put Joe Blanton on the market.
Lohse was paid $4.2 million last year, when he worked for the Reds and Phillies and went a combined 9-12 with a 4.62 ERA. He was 3-0 with a 4.72 ERA in 13 games (11 starts) for the Phillies after being acquired at the deadline.
Lohse’s career record is 63-74 to go with a 4.82 ERA in 218 games (195 starts).