Report: Mets want to sign Hand for 1 year, but he seeks 2-year pact

The New York Mets are still interested in free-agent reliever Brad Hand, who's seeking a two-year contract this winter, Andy Martino of SNY reports.

However, so far the Mets haven't been willing to go beyond a one-year deal worth slightly below $10 million for the three-time All-Star, according to Martino. That's nearly equivalent to the amount he would have earned if a team claimed him off waivers from the Cleveland Indians in October.

After the Chicago White Sox inked right-hander Liam Hendriks to a three-year contract with $54 million guaranteed on Monday, Hand is arguably the best relief pitcher remaining on the open market. It remains to be seen whether Hendriks' deal will help Hand get the longer pact he seeks.

Since becoming a full-time reliever in 2016, Hand has been one of the league's most reliable bullpen options. He owns a 2.70 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with 104 saves and a 12.2 K/9 across 320 innings over the last five seasons between Cleveland and the San Diego Padres.

In addition to the Mets, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Houston Astros have been mentioned as potential suitors for the southpaw. The White Sox were also linked to Hand this offseason before landing Hendriks.