While the Minnesota Twins have said they will try to sign pitcher Johan Santana to a contract extension before the start of the 2008 season, there's a strong possibility that the small-market team will be unable to come to terms with the two-time Cy Young Award winner. If and when that happens, the Mets will be ready to pounce, a high-ranking team official said last night. Speaking under the condition of anonymity, the official said the Mets would be a very interested party in what is expected to be a feverish competition for the 28-year-old left-hander should he hit the trade market.