ESPNNewYork.com  —  HOUSTON — New York Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez suffered a torn ligament in his right thumb while allegedly striking the grandfather of his children last week at Citi Field, a team official said.  —  Rodriguez, who pitched Saturday with discomfort in his return …

Red Sox, Coyle Agree On $1.3 Million  —  The Red Sox have agreed to terms with third-round pick Sean Coyle for $1.3 million.  That's more than $1 million above MLB's recommended bonus of $279,900 for the No. 110 slot, and could be the first over several seven-figure deals for Boston today.

Nationals encounter risks, rewards of dealing with Scott Boras while working to sign Bryce Harper  —  Just how deeply is agent Scott Boras now embedded in the fabric of the Nationals, especially if as is expected, his client Bryce Harper signs with Washington by midnight on Monday night?

Extension for Reyes in plans  —  Mets on Twitter  —  Obviously the philosophy can change, but the Mets plan to pick up Jose Reyes' club option this winter and explore signing him to another long-term deal, a person familiar with the team's thinking told The Post yesterday.

Craig makes first start at third base  —  A protracted skid by regular third baseman Felipe Lopez caused manager Tony La Russa to briefly modify his stance regarding Allen Craig's fitness for third base.  —  On the same day the Cardinals moved opening day third baseman David Freese to the 60 …

Minor League Baseball: Investing In The Future  —  Baseball players know what you think of them.  —  They're overpaid.  They're spoiled.  Everything's been handed to them.  —  If you've lived the life, however, you already know perception does not match reality.  At least not in the minor leagues.

Floundering Mets have become baseball's worst franchise … Entertained the annual worst-movie-of-all-time debate with a friend the other day.  —  I said Godzilla is the worst because the plot is utterly ludicrous, the special effects are mediocre and Matthew Broderick, starring as Dr. Niko Tatopoulos …

Rangers' Nelson Cruz headed to disabled list  —  Right fielder Nelson Cruz is heading to the 15-day disabled list for a third time this season, and a second time with a strained left hamstring.  An MRI on Sunday revealed no tear but inflammation in and around the muscle.

You've Gotta Have Heart  —  Derek Jeter has played with heart and hustle for 16 seasons.  (Diamond Images/Getty Images)  —  I'm going to give you what I found to be an obscure but still kind of shocking bit of baseball award news.  But first let's talk a little bit about baseball and heart.

Galarraga, Avila scuffle in Tigers dugout  —  ‘Misunderstanding’ between pitcher, catcher gets heated  —  CHICAGO — Armando Galarraga catapulted to fame with his graciousness and sportsmanship after a blown call spoiled his bid at a perfect game, but he's just as competitive as anybody else.

Lind, Romero give Blue Jays win over Angels  —  ANAHEIM, Calif. — Ricky Romero pitched seven solid innings one day after signing a multi-year contract extension, Adam Lind homered and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-1 on Sunday.  —  Romero (10-7) allowed six hits, struck out four and walked three.