Starting Pitcher: Randy Wolf casualty of Astros' circumstances

The Hot Stove Blog reports that there have been rumblings about the Astros' payroll situation this offseason. General Manager Ed Wade confirmed suspicions on Friday.

Due to payroll problems, Houston won't "move forward" in negotiations with free-agent left-hander Randy Wolf, Wade told the Houston Chronicle. Wade was unable to be reached for comment by MLB.com. In light of the nation's economic troubles, the Astros are one of several teams treading softly in free agency.

The club's top market priorities have been to re-sign Wolf and setup man Doug Brocail. While this report is concerning, Wade said Houston is still interested in Wolf. The Astros previously made offers to both pitchers.

Ty Wigginton, Jose Valverde and Miguel Tejada's names have come up as potential trade bait, but nothing has gained steam yet, at least publicly.

Wolf, 32, was a key cog in Houston's second-half surge last season. He went 6-2 with a 3.57 ERA in 12 starts after being acquired from San Diego.

The Mets appear to be interested in  Jose Valverde, who can fill a void at closer. The only thing with that is he becomes a free agent at the end of the year and the Mets will only look to get him cheap throught trade. Minaya has said in the past, he will not trade top prospects to get someone who will be a free agent at season's end. 

I would love to see the Mets get Ty Wigginton back in a Mets uniform. He is a good utility player that plays LF, 2B, 3B, 1B and can hit left handers. He also plays with intensity that the Mets lack at this point.. He is not the greatest fielder in the world, but who cares.

The Mets also have interest in Randy Wolf  and view him as someone who can replace Oliver Perez, if his price don't drop.