Freddy Garcia visits with Mets

Free-agent pitcher Freddy Garcia visited with the Mets on Wednesday, according to sources.

The Mets haven't said anything about possible progress in contract talks, but they have long been interested in Garcia, who was spotted at their camp in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

The Mets were pleased by Pedro Martinez's speedy recovery after shoulder surgery and are hopeful they can duplicate that success if they sign Garcia. The 31-year-old Garcia had shoulder surgery last August, cutting short his season in Philadelphia, where he went only 1-5 with a 5.90 ERA in 11 starts. Garcia, a two-time All-Star, is hoping to be available to pitch by June or July.

The Mets dramatically bolstered their starting rotation by acquiring ace Johan Santana earlier this month, but they're still interested in improving their depth.