"Check in with Jose Reyes, perhaps make a modest offer, then step back while he collects proposals and allows other clubs to set his market value: That is the Mets' negotiating strategy with their free-agent shortstop, according to people familiar with the team s thinking.

The Mets have a five-day window for exclusive talks after the World Series, but will not re-sign Reyes during that time.

Unsure what Reyes will be able to command on the open market and if his price will remain within a range they consider reasonable the Mets say they see no point in beginning talks by presenting an offer that is close to their best or final one.

Jose is not going to be a quick process, said one source. The fan base would love for it to be that way, but a quick process would mean that he will not be a Met. Let him go do the dance, and see how (other teams) value him. Why should we set the market?

Reyes' agents declined to comment on the process.

With the Mets expecting to cut payroll from the $140 million range to $110 million-$115 millionish, club officials have made clear that if Reyes leaves, 22-year-old Ruben Tejada will replace him. Whether that is determined in November, December or January will not affect other aspects of the team's plans, officials insist.

Reyes price is difficult to predict, more so than those of fellow free-agent stars Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder. View Reyes through one lens, and he is a 28-year-old batting champion and one of the most dynamic players in baseball at a position known for offensive scarcity."