Mets believe Zito wants it bad

Ken Davidoff at Newsday, writes about Barry Zito, the Mets and how they feel that Zito wants to play in New York badly:

A Mets contingent convened with Barry Zito and agent Scott Boras Tuesday in Southern California, furthering the Mets' effort to sign the free-agent lefthander. While it wasn't clear whether the Mets made their first offer, they entered the meeting determined to keep their bid reasonable.

The Mets believe that if Zito wants to pitch for them badly enough -- and it's no secret that the Mets' large media market, National League status and pitching coach Rick Peterson all appeal to the 28-year-old -- he will come to Shea Stadium even if the Texas Rangers offer more money.