Billy Wagner Deal Dead

Tony Massarotti cites an unnamed source to report that the Red Sox' waivers bid for former Mets closer and Tommy John surgery victim Billy Wagner is "probably dead." Wagner, one of Jonathan Papelbon's favorite pitchers, will likely exercise his no-trade clause to keep the ailing Mets from shipping the pitcher to Boston. The sticking point? Wagner didn't want to endanger his newly repaired elbow while pitching during meaningful innings with a team that's making an actual playoff bid.

Other reporters have cited the 38-year-old former All Star's quixotic desire to reestablish himself as a closing pitcher in 2010.

Update: Newsday now reports that Countrytime will remain a Met.

Update: We were lied to. The deal has happened.