Speaking to the Associated Press prior to the Mets game against the Phillies, Monday, Billy Wagner made it clear that he would accept a trade to the Red Sox only if they agreed not to pick up his option for the 2010 season. Wagner reiterated that he wanted to return as a closer, not a set-up man. "I don't want to end my career as a setup man," Wagner said. "I'd like to have that option." According to FoxSports.com, the Red Sox declined both the commitment of not picking up the option or not offering Wagner arbitration following this season if any deal was to be made. The Red Sox have until 1 p.m.Tuesday to work out a trade with the Mets, who could also release the rights to the 38-year-old reliever to the Red Sox, not getting anything in return.

According to Buster Olney of ESPN.com, sources have raised questions regarding whether or not Mets reliever Billy Wagner is 100 percent. Wagner, who is coming off Tommy John Surgery on his left, pitching elbow, hasn't pitched since last Thursday. During that outing (his only one of the season), the reliever pitched a perfect inning, striking out two while touching 96 mph with his fastball. The Red Sox, who were awarded a waiver claim on Wagner, has until 1 p.m. Tuesday to make a trade for the 38-year-old. The Mets could also not pull Wagner back, relinquishing the pitcher to the Red Sox.