Mets interested in signing Brian Wilson: Report

While the New York Yankees are looking to shave their payroll, it looks like the cross-city Mets might be looking to add a little beard to their roster.  Make that a lot of a lot of facial hair.

According to CBSSports.com, the Mets are interested in signing shaggy free agent closer Brian Wilson.  Mets general manager Sandy Alderson watched the former San Francisco Giants reliever in a private workout Saturday, as tweeted by USA Today reporter Bob Nightengale:

The New York #Mets are showing strong interest in former #SFGiants closer Brian Wilson. GM Sandy Alderson watched him Sat in private workout
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 13, 2013

The 30-year-old Wilson had Tommy John surgery in April and missed all but two games of the Giants World Series championship season.  He is reportedly on track to be ready for Opening Day.

"I'm going to me," he told reporters.

Wilson has 171 saves for the Giants and was once known as one of the most dominant closers in the major leagues.

Frank Francisco had 23 saves for the lowly Mets as the team's closer last season.  The only thing bigger than his 5.53 ERA was his weight.  He is still under contract with the team but could become Wilson's set-up man if the Mets end up signing the hirsute closer.

The report says six to eight teams have shown interest for the services of Wilson.  He is still deciding whether or not he wants to close for a non-contender or become a set-up man for a team with playoff potential.

Right now, the Mets chances of making the playoffs seem razor thin — so closer it would be.