The Rangers and the New York Mets engaged in serious talks concerning second baseman Alfonso Soriano this week. Right now a deal doesn't appear imminent because the Rangers want three players and at the top of their list is outfielder Lastings Milledge, a Double A outfielder and a former No. 1 pick. The Rangers have not been actively shopping Soriano but are willing to listen, and the Mets have been interested in the All-Star second baseman for some time. The Rangers are also drifting toward the selling mode now that they're one game below .500. The Mets have been using utility infielder Miguel Cairo at second base while Kaz Matsui is on the disabled list with a bruised knee. Matsui has been a disappointment anyway, hitting only .234, and the Mets went into Sunday's game eighth in the National League in runs scored. They are also interested in the Dodgers' Jeff Kent. Milledge was hitting .302 with 18 stolen bases in 62 games in Class A before being promoted to Double A on July 11. The Rangers asked about him earlier this season and were turned down. The Rangers' ambitious demands are keeping a deal from getting made. Sources said the talks are hotter than both teams are letting on, but there is still no guarantee that it could get done. The position of both sides could change as the deadline nears. The Rangers also remain interested in Orioles pitcher Sidney Ponson, who was traded to the San Diego Padres on Saturday. But that deal is contingent upon Phil Nevin waiving his no-trade clause and agreeing to go to Baltimore. If he does, the Rangers could try for Ponson again, either for outfielder Richard Hidalgo or minor league prospects. The Rangers still aren't enthused about picking up all of Ponson's contract for 2006.