Adam Rubin reports in todays Daily News that the Mets have begin looking into making a move in the offseason to replace Paul Lo Duca, who's contract is up after the season.  A key candidate appears to be Ronny Paulino of the Pirates.  Lo Duca has frequently expressed a desire to stay with the Mets, but the team has said since the preseason that any such offer most likely wouldn't come till after the season.

Ramon Castro is also looking at the end of his contract, and there are no true catching prospects on the team's AAA team. The primary big name in the catching free agency will be Posada. Posada was drafted by the Yankees, and has played for them since his major league debut in 95.

Lo Duca has always seemed to be one of the more popular players on the team, as well as the most vocal. Various guys on the Mets beat, Delcos, Rubin, etc all seem to indicate he's one of the leaders in the clubhouse.  I think its highly unlikely the Yankees part ways with Posada, who's probably the best of what will be out there as far as free agent catchers go, and Paulino so far is not hitting like he did last season. Considerng second base and corner outfield issues will need to be addressed, not to mention starting pitching since there's a good chance Glavine hangs it up, perhaps a one year extension to Paulie isn't such a bad idea.