Richard

Hidalgo

Hidalgo isn’t likely to be back. Maybe if the team had more time to negotiate with him a deal could be worked out, but the Mets are trying to aim bigger right now. The relievers are more likely to return.

So he’s settling for the next best thing in Damian Miller. Of the players listed about, Hidalgo seemed like the best potential match for the Brewers. He still might be if other teams don’t come calling.

Jermaine Dye seemed to be their top choice, but he wanted a two-year deal and got it elsewhere. Hidalgo can probably be had for about $5 million. “We’ve been talking with the Rangers,” agent Peter Greenberg said. “They’ve been very aggressive. It’s a good fit for the Rangers and a good fit for Richard. They’re definitely high on our list. They’re as good a possibility as anybody.”

Hidalgo will probably miss at least a couple games this week. If you have a good outfielder in reserve, put him in.

GM Gerry Hunsicker wasn’t ready to say when or if Hidalgo will join the Astros on their seven-game road trip. The DL is still a possibility, but so is Hidalgo playing in the current series in St. Louis. He’s day-to-day.

''I talked to Richard today, and he said he’s feeling better,’' GM Gerry Hunsicker said. ''We’ll have a decision by the afternoon.’' Hidalgo will either be placed on the DL, opening a spot for Jonathan Johnson to come up and start tonight’s game, or else Tripp Cromer will be sent down to Triple-A New Orleans.

Hidalgo has rejoined the team and says he could play now if he didn’t have to wait. His return will force Colin Porter back to Triple-A New Orleans.

Hidalgo is back looking like an $8 million-$10 million player after an impressive 2003 season, but he’s owed $12 million next season and has a $2 million buyout on a 2005 option worth $15 million. The Astros are going to have to pick up a portion of the contract if they want to deal him.

''That’s probably the first injury this spring training that I’m probably concerned about,’' Hunsicker said. ''We have to be very careful. A leg injury that seems minor can turn into something serious if you’re not careful.’' Hidalgo is listed as day-to-day, but it sounds like he’ll miss some time.

Hidalgo is listed as day-to-day.