Because, hey, if you can’t get Ben Sheets, Fernando Tatis is the next best thing, right?

PORT ST. LUCIE — Omar Minaya is deep into negotiations with Fernando Tatis for a return engagement, and could have a deal complete within a matter of days, according to a baseball source.

The 35-year-old hit .282 with eight homers and 48 RBIs last season, but incurred the wrath of Mets’ fans by hitting into 13 double plays in 340 at-bats.

There’s pretty much zero chance that Omar Minaya is the Mets’ GM at this point next year.  Molina may not have been a great fit for the Mets, but they overpayed Jason Bay (which is fine, I guess) and passed on Lackey, Sheets, and Pineiro.  For some reason, I don’t think signing a 35-year-old is going to do much to improve the team.  And if they stick him at first base, well, have fun with that.

Tatis once hit two grand slams in one inning, but cool stats like that don’t mean much when you’re over the hill and essentially worthless.  He gives the Mets a little bit in the pop department, but overall, I can’t imagine Mets fans being too happy with his return.  I guess David Segui wasn’t available.

But hey, he’s Latin, so you know that Omar’s happy.  Is it a coincidence that white Tim Redding just signed with the Rockies?  Doubtful…

[NY Post]