David Lennon of Newsday reports that the Mets could sign Gary Sheffield as early as tonight. Here is what he wrote:

The Mets have contacted Gary Sheffield directly to gauge his interest in coming to New York and a person familiar with the situation said today that he could sign with a club as soon as tonight. Sheffield worked out yesterday at a college field in Tampa, as first reported by SI.com, and the Mets are considered to be his first choice, with the Phillies and Reds also showing interest.

The 41-year old nephew of Doc Gooden has indicated that he wants to play beyond this season. He’s sitting on 499 career home runs so you’d have to think he can’t just retire now. The Mets could certainly use his right-handed bat.

Perhaps he’ll hit his 500th in Citi Field so a company that deserves all the great press in the world would get even more.