Meet the Mets  —  Former darkhorse takes the lead in Santana derby  —  Once written off as an extreme long shot in the long-running Johan Santana drama, the Mets may actually be the favorite now.  At the very least, there are indications now that they are engaging in more regular dialogue …

Agent: Cano interested in long-term deal  —  The Yankees could lock up Robinson Cano, their All-Star second baseman, to a long-term deal before he hits free agency.  (Newsday / Paul J. Bereswill)  —  Robinson Cano would be open to the idea of signing a long-term contract with the Yankees, his agent, Bobby Barad, said yesterday.

Betancourt earns raise from Tribe  —  Reliever tied for American League lead in holds in 2007  —  CLEVELAND — When it comes to the job of setting up a closer, Rafael Betancourt is one of the best in baseball.  —  And in doing that job, Betancourt has set himself up with a hefty raise and a measure of stability.

Focus on outfields: National League  —  With spring training about a month away, Sporting News takes a look at how teams are shaping up for the opening of camp.  Here is SN's ranking of National League outfields.  —  1. ROCKIES  —  LF Matt Holliday, CF Willy Taveras, RF Brad Hawpe.

Around the Horn: Outfielders  —  Anchored by Beltran, trio looking to provide steady production … The Mets' 2007 season was defined by what wasn't achieved.  In much the same way, the subsequent months have been all about what hasn't been accomplished, the acquisition of a front-of-the-rotation pitcher …

Q and A with Alan Horne  —  Q: How were you informed of your spring training invitation?  —  A: I got a call from our head of minor league operations Mark Newman. and Nardi Contreras, our pitching coordinator, also gave me a call over the last week sometime.  —  Q: What was your reaction?

Brewers invite Nunez to camp  —  All winter, I've been wondering if the Brewers needed another utility infielder to go with Craig Counsell, particularly up the middle in the event something happens to shortstop J.J. Hardy or second baseman Rickie Weeks.  —  The Brewers apparently have been concerned about the same thing.

Top Twenty Offensive Yankee Seasons - First Base  —  I am continuing my look at the top 10 offensive seasons by position for the Yankees with first base.  —  Before I present the list, I've described the methodology I'm using here.  —  Without further ado, here's the first base list.  —  Rank

Notes: Mulder's outlook optimistic  —  Kennedy under microscope; Ankiel addresses leadoff talk  —  ST. LOUIS — Mark Mulder remains uncertain about a timetable for his return to the Cardinals' starting rotation.  He's certain that he already feels better than ever about his chances at eventual effectiveness, though.

Kansas City Royals  —  Baseball America's Top 10 Prospects lists are based on projections of a player's long-term worth after discussions with scouting and player-development personnel.  All players who haven't exceeded the major league rookie standards of 130 at-bats or 50 innings pitched (without regard to service time) are eligible.

Ernie Harwell, ageless voice of the Tigers, turns 90 on Friday  —  The ageless voice of the Tigers brings the same energy to his life after baseball  —  Immediately after he awakes Friday on his 90th birthday, Ernie Harwell plans to do a series of exercises.

Marlins, White Sox, and Rays  —  Continuing our statistical tour around the major leagues...  Florida Marlins  —  Rule 5 picks are supposed to be for strong-armed relievers and toolsy outfielders in A-ball.  You're not supposed to be able to grab a major-league-ready middle infielder …