Mets fail to reach agreement with Hisanori Takahashi

MLB recently granted an extension for the Mets to come to terms on a new contract with Hisanori Takahashi, but David Waldstein of the New York Times reported late this afternoon that the two sides were unable to reach a deal.

Takahashi just confirmed the report in a statement from his new agent Arn Tellem (via Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com).

“Unfortunately, the Mets and I were not able to reach an agreement prior to the expiration of our negotiating deadline,” Takahashi said in a statement released by his agent. “I am grateful to the Mets for the opportunity to start my Major League Baseball career with such a great franchise. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in New York City and want to thank all the Mets fans for their support. I am now looking forward to exploring my options as a free agent.

Because of a clause in Takahashi’s original contract with the club, the left-hander will be granted his release tomorrow. Per MLB rules, he is unable to re-sign with the Mets until May 15, which all but guarantees that he will end up elsewhere.

As Aaron wrote earlier today, Takahashi was hoping to land a three-year contract worth around $5 million per season, but the Mets were only willing to guarantee one year.