Mets in the running for Soriano

Randy Miller at Philly Burbs, writes about Alfonso Soriano, the Phillies and the Mets:

To sign left fielder Alfonso Soriano, the Phils may have to outbid the New York Mets, the franchise that beat them out in recent years for free agent pitchers Tom Glavine and Billy Wagner.

A source close to Mets general manager Omar Minaya says New York also is very hot for Soriano, who is seeking a deal similar to the seven-year, $119 million contract the Mets gave center fielder Carlos Beltran two winters ago.

The Washington Nationals, Soriano's team in 2006, have exclusive bidding rights until Nov. 11, but other suitors are permitted to talk contract parameters now. The Phils and Mets are expected to pass off informal offers this week. The Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels also are planning to make a run at Soriano, who hit a career-high 46 homers and stole 41 bases in 2006.