On the bright side, merely using Google has saved the Mets precious funds on a background check that might otherwise be spent on Manny Ramirez. From the Newark Star-Ledger’s Dan Graziano.

The Mets have spoken with former Met Wally Backman about managing their Double-A Binghamton team but are split on how to handle possible controversy that would ensue. Backman was briefly named manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks on Nov. 1, 2004, but was fired four days later when revelations about two arrests — one involving a domestic dispute and one for driving under the influence — were publicly revealed.

The Phildelphia Daily News’ Marcus Hayes presses the anxiety button by spreading the rumor of a possible Bobby Abreu for Mark Prior trade between the Phillies and Cubs.