Could Putz Join Wagner As Trade Bait?

The NY Post reported that JJ Putz is going to pitch a simulated game Saturday and for the Brooklyn Cyclones on Monday. If there are no set backs, the question begs to be answered- can the Mets slip him through the waiver wire and trade him to a contender?

For arguments sake, lets look at the calendar. I suspect JJ could get at least two outings in prior to the August 31st playoff roster deadline. If he pitches in the minors Monday, his first MLB action could be Wednesday, August 26th. That would give him August 28th, 29th, 30th to pitch again to show he is healthy and effective. Even if he get hit around, I suspect a team in contention for the playoffs would look at JJ Putz's upside as being better then what they have in the 8th inning, or in some circumstances-as closer!

Putz has a $8.9 million option for 2010 with a $1 million buy out. Same deal as Wagner with the buyout. He should be able to slip through the waiver game...stay tuned!