Whither Julian?

OAKLAND, Calif. - Bartolo Colon is a good friend of Julian Tavarez. He said his old buddy wants to pitch for the Mets. At least that would his first preference, but there's no indication yet whether the Mets or any other team are willing to sign the free agent righty.

When the Sox were trying to deal Tavarez, who requested and received his release from the Pawtucket Red Sox Friday, they were talking to the Rockies and Brewers, but nothing ever developed.