Santana trade opens market for free agent pitchers

The Red Sox and Yankees are used to always getting their man, but with the New York Mets expecting to sign Johan Santana to a contract extension Friday that will finalize their trade with Minnesota, it has left Boston and New York in radically different moods.

In Boston there is relief Santana is going to the Mets, and not the Yankees, their hated archrival.

In the Yankees' offices, any similar feelings turned to angst, knowing Santana will still be a nagging reminder while playing one borough away.

"Pain is a part of this game," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. "Playing here in New York, there is always pain. There are always distractions. It's just part of our daily existence.

"The only time I feel any nirvana is when the commissioner is handing the trophy our way."

The Mets, according to a high-ranking official privy to the negotiations, are close to agreeing to a five- or six-year contract extension with Santana that will average about $21.5 million a year. The two sides have until 5 p.m. ET Friday to reach an agreement.