Gonzalez may not fit in Mets' overhaul

NEW YORK -- The New York Mets don't seem likely to add Juan Gonzalez as part of their offseason makeover.

"It's probably still a long shot at this point for any premium free agent," general manager Steve Phillips said Wednesday.

Gonzalez, the top hitter left on the market, is thought to be seeking $10 million to $15 million a season. The Mets are believed to be willing to offer a two-year package worth about $10 million.

Phillips is still talking with Jeff Moorad, Gonzalez's agent. Moorad did not return a telephone call seeking comment Wednesday.

"The conversations I've had have been conceptual in nature," Phillips said.

Gonzalez earned $10 million from Cleveland last year under a one-year contract and rejected the Indians' offer of salary arbitration. He may continue to negotiate with Cleveland through Tuesday.

Phillips has said he wants the Mets' payroll to be about $95 million. He has been hampered in revamping by an inability to trade Todd Zeile and his $6 million salary.

Zeile has no spot in the lineup following trades that brought first baseman Mo Vaughn and second baseman Roberto Alomar to New York. Zeile plays first and third, and Alomar's arrival will cause Edgardo Alfonzo to move from second base to third.

"I think right now we're probably a million-and-a-half under budget," Phillips said. "We have some small flexibility, but not the type that would allow us to go out and sign a premium free agent."

Since the end of the season, Phillips has revamped a woeful offense that scored just 642 runs, the fewest of any major league team last year. Phillips still would like to improve his outfield, which right now has Jay Payton in center with free agent Roger Cedeno in one corner and Benny Agbayani splitting time with Timo Perez in the other.

The dealing has left New York with a rotation that includes four left-handed starters: Al Leiter, Shawn Estes, Bruce Chen and Glendon Rusch. Right-hander Steve Trachsel is the fifth member of the rotation.