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Mets consider trying to void Rodriguez's contract

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The Mets are looking into the possibility of voiding closer Francisco Rodriguez's contract, SI.com has learned. If the team is successful in doing so, they could save at least $17 million, and potentially more.

They are looking into whether the contract, for $37 million over three years, can be voided based on Rodriguez injuring himself outside the course of play. Rodriguez suffered torn thumb ligaments during a fight with his girlfriend's father. Rodriguez has been charged with assault in the case.

Rodriguez has apologized for the incident, but that might not get him off the hook. Team sources suggest the voiding of the contract is something that's on the table for team higher-ups.

Rodriguez's salary is $11.5 million in 2010 and also in 2011. He has a $17.5 million vesting option for 2012 with a $3.5 million buyout. That option vests with 100 games finished in 2010 and 2011 combined or 55 games finished in '11, so it's unlikely the option would go into affect anyway.

The players union might have a position on this though, as the Mets were only able to suspend Rodriguez initially for two games due to the power of the players union.

General manager Omar Minaya said publicly the team didn't regret the contract. But perhaps behind the scenes, there are different thoughts being discussed.