Mets one of four teams interested in Jeff Francis

According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, the New York Mets are among four teams “keeping tabs” on left handed starter Jeff Francis:

Lefty Jeff Francis is starting to attract more interest from teams in the market for a starting pitcher.

January 20, 2012 3:53 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@jcrasnick

Jerry Crasnick

The #Mariners, #Reds, #BlueJays and #Mets are among the clubs believed to be keeping tabs on Francis.

January 20, 2012 3:54 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@jcrasnick

Jerry Crasnick

Prior to the 2009 season, the 31-year-old starter underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder and as a result he missed the entire entire year.  He returned to the mound in May of 2010 and finished the season with a 4-6 record and 5.00 ERA in 20 games for the Colorado Rockies. After signing a one year deal with the Kansas City Royals last off-season, the left hander went  6-16 with a 91 to 39 K/BB ratio and 4.82 earned run average over 31 starts.  2011 marked the fourth time in Jeff’s career in which he made 30 starts:

Although his fastball has dipped down to the 85 MPH range, Francis can still provide innings and depth to a rotation in need of both; especially with the uncertainty surrounding Johan Santana.