Report: Bartolo Colon “Available”

A report on Monday says the Mets have made Bartolo Colon “available” in trade talks.

ESPN New York writes that “industry sources” say while it is not a foregone conclusion that Colon will be dealt and serious talks have not yet begun, there is expected to be an increase in interest as the July 31 trade deadline nears.

Colon has gone through hot and cold spells this season, going 8-8 with a 3.99 ERA. Not bad at all for an overweight 41-year-old. But Bartolo Colon is signed for next season for $11 million, when the Mets hope all of their young pitching will be ready, leaving Colon pretty much useless.

The Mets would be smart to dump his salary and spend it on a much-needed power bat. If they could get someone who could help them now, all the better. But considering his age and his salary commitment, the Mets probably will not land an immediate starter, or a top-notch prospect for that matter.

I never thought Bartolo Colon should have been signed in the first place. So I have no problem trading him now.