MLB Trade Rumors: New York Mets Would Be Crazy to Bring Back Francisco Rodriguez

As if the New York Mets needed another reminder about how bad their bullpen is, the Amazin's bullpen proved it once again against the Philadelphia Phillies. A combination of Miguel Bautista, Tim Byrdak and Jeremy Hefner allowed a combined total of six runs, effectively knocking the Mets out of the game for good.

According to a report from Ken Davidoff of the New York Post, the Mets will certainly be looking to bolster their bullpen and could look to Milwaukee Brewers' closer, and former Met, Francisco Rodriguez to fill the void.

New York's bullpen has been absolutely dreadful this year and it could be argued that the Mets would have a much better record if not for their inconsistent 'pen. This team is clearly suffering from a systemic breakdown and it isn't just the fault of one or two pitchers.

The Mets' bullpen ERA stands at an abysmal 4.91, good for last in the entire MLB. They are also tied for the second-most blown saves in the league with 13.

However, despite all that, the Mets must pass on bringing K-Rod back to Flushing.

Most likely, the Brewers will be looking for a pretty nice haul in return for K-Rod. Milwaukee is currently having a horrid season as they sit in fourth place in the NL Central and that could mean rebuilding is on the way.

To put K-Rod back in a Mets uniform, the Amazin's will have to give the Brewers some young talent in return. Although it isn't known what level those prospects will be, one would imagine the Brew Crew will be looking for at least one major prospect seeing as how Rodriguez is the cream of the reliever crop in the trade market at the moment.

With that being said, if the Mets do give up anything for Rodriguez, it could be for a rental. K-Rod becomes a free agent at the end of the 2012 campaign and could be on his way out of town once again in a matter of months.

K-Rod's 2012 numbers aren't too promising as well. The right-hander has pitched to a poor 4.17 ERA this season, which is the worst of his decade-long career. He also only has one save and has already blown four. At this point, he's a slightly better Frank Francisco.

Character issues are also a cause for concern. Who can forget K-Rod's arrest at Citi Field after striking his father-in-law? While most of us can sympathize with wanting to do the same thing, it still doesn't make it right and brings to question if Rodriguez can keep his cool for the sake of his team.

There are just too many concerns about K-Rod at the moment for the Mets to go ahead and make a deal to bring him back.