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Report: Phillies, Red Sox Aggressively Pursuing Mets' Carlos Beltran

NEW YORK (WFAN) -- A Carlos Beltran trade might make some Mets fans upset.

Or Yankees fans.

According to FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal, two New York rivals -- the Phillies and Red Sox -- are "among the most aggressive suitors" for Beltran.

"The interest for Beltran is so high, sources say, that the Mets might trade him several days or more before the July 31 non-waiver deadline," wrote Rosenthal, adding the Mets might not have to trade much salary relief in return. Beltran will be owed almost $6 million at the deadline.

Rosenthal also reported the priority for the cash-strapped Mets isn't to save money -- it's to gain top prospects for the star outfielder.

"Chances are great that he might receive a better deal in terms of prospects from a National League team," WFAN's Rich Coutinho wrote on Tuesday, "and he might be posed with the decision of whether he'd be willing to trade him to the Fightin' Phils."

When the New York Post asked if he'd consider playing for a contender last month, Beltran answered: "That's correct. If it happens."

The addition of Beltran, who reached base five times in the Mets' win on Tuesday, would make either team's outfield downright deadly.

The Phillies would start Beltran, Raul Ibanez and Shane Victorino.

J.D. Drew is likely to be the odd man out in Boston. Beltran would patrol the outfield with Jacoby Ellsbury and Carl Crawford at Fenway Park.

Another NL East rival -- the Braves -- are also interested in Beltran, reported Rosenthal, along with the Giants, Tigers and Indians.

One thing's for sure. Mets general manager Sandy Alderson has his work cut out for him.

"Alderson is left with a tough choice," wrote Coutinho. "Get the better deal and possibly watch Beltran lead the Phils to a championship or take a deal elsewhere that has a lesser chance of roping in a top prospect. "

Mets fans: could you stomach the idea of the Mets trading Beltran to Philadelphia? Sound off in the comments below...

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