Jul 27, 2007 1:14 PM EST

The Mets are looking for a second baseman, but only if they believe it's a strong defensive upgrade over Ruben Gotay. The top name on their wish list is Minnesota's Luis Castillo, a former Gold Glove winner who also could help them offensively in the No. 2 spot in the batting order. The problem is, the Twins haven't yet decided to give up on their season and trade veterans, so for now Castillo's not available. One team official said all of the available second basemen were "offensive guys," and they believe they already have that in Gotay, who's batting .333.

They have checked in on Kansas City's Mark Grudzielanek, but they're worried about the health of his legs, and they're not sure they're comfortable with his 2008 contract option kicking in at $4 million once he gets to 500 plate appearances. They've also talked to the White Sox about Tadahito Iguchi.

Via Star-Ledger