Mets GM Omar Minaya also is continuing to gauge the market for Kris Benson and numerous teams have contacted him about the righthander. Minaya is expected to advance discussions about moving Benson at next week's winter meetings in Dallas, and it's possible that he could deal Benson before he returns home in an effort to cut payroll and address one of the club's needs at the same time.

Of course, one of those needs appears to be at second base. Minaya said last month that incumbent Kaz Matsui was the Mets' second baseman "for now," but it's no secret that's one area the GM is looking to upgrade.

Grudzielanek, who hit .294 for the Cardinals last season, would seem to be a solid fit. Although he came up as a shortstop with the Expos, Grudzielanek now has played more games at second base and has committed just 56 errors over 775 games there.

The 35-year-old has a strong throwing arm and an excellent pivot at second base, scouts say, and would provide some stability for young shortstop Jose Reyes. The Cardinals would like to re-sign Grudzielanek and the Royals are also believed to have interest in him.

On the trade front, Benson has emerged as a legitimate chip. Minaya is still believed to have interest in Orioles reliever Jorge Julio, but the Mets backed off discussions for a swap with Baltimore when it became clear there was significant interest in Benson around the league. The Giants and Royals are believed to have made serious overtures regarding Benson, but it's unclear if there'd be any match with either club.

Still, one source said he'd be "surprised" if the Mets don't find somewhere to send Benson, who has two years and about $15.5 million coming to him over the next two seasons. Minaya ultimately may decide to make the trade with Baltimore, but just wants to be certain there isn't a better package out there. Dealing Benson would free up some cash for the Mets to make another splashy move - trading for A's lefty Barry Zito, perhaps, or, of course, Red Sox slugger Manny Ramirez.

Minaya is slated to meet with Red Sox brass - a group of four executives will represent GM-less Boston - next week in Dallas.