Mets reach deal with free agent CF Cameron

NEW ORLEANS – The New York Mets received an early Christmas present Saturday when free agent outfielder Mike Cameron agreed to accept their three-year offer.

Three clubs had been recruiting Cameron: The Mets, Oakland and San Diego. The Athletics were aggressive early and had money to spend after closer Keith Foulke agreed to terms with Boston on Saturday. San Diego, who also had an offer out to Kenny Lofton, met with Cameron and his agent on Friday night. Neither San Diego nor Oakland, however, could match the Mets’ location or spotlight.

Cameron, a Georgia resident, wanted to stay on the East Coast after four seasons in Seattle. Cameron, who batted .253 with 18 homers and 76 RBI in a down season for the Mariners in 2003, is expected to become the Mets’ regular center fielder. His three-year deal is worth $19.5 million.