Foul Territory

Mets pick up another catcher

Rangers fans who were hoping Texas could have pulled off some trade with the New York Mets involving Gerald Laird and Lastings Milledge can forget about it. The Mets traded the young centerfielder for a catcher - it just wasn't Laird. Milledge was sent to Washington for catcher Brian Schneider and outfielder Ryan Church. Scheider his .235 with six homers and 54 RBI in 2007, numbers not much better than Laird's .224/9/47 in one fewer at-bat. Laird is also a better defensive catcher. But Church is coming off a career season (15 homers, 70 RBI) so he was much more than just a throw in.

- Anthony Andro

Appearance time

If you need a Rangers fix this holiday season, there are some opportunities to see your favorite players. Texas ace Kevin Millwood will ride in a float in Saturday's Neiman Marcus Adolphus Children's Parade in downtown Dallas. The Rangers will also host the Toys for Tots Toy Drive celebration finale Dec. 13 from 5 p.m. until 7:30 at Vandergriff Plaza at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Fans may enter the event through the gift shop in centerfield. There will be autographs, caroling, a craft area and Santa Claus will also make an appearance. Second baseman Ian Kinsler in the honorary chair for event. Admission is free but fans are encouraged to bring new toys to help families in the area.

- Anthony Andro

Mets out of Laird picture

The New York Mets, one of the teams that showed interest in Rangers catcher Gerald Laird, are out of the market for a catcher now. The Mets traded for Milwaukee catcher Johnny Estrada on Tuesday, filling the void for a starting catcher. Laird, who lost playing time to Jarrod Saltalamacchia at the end of the season, has been one of the Rangers who has been asked about by several teams. Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said last week that his plan was for the Rangers to open camp with both Laird and Saltalamacchia on the roster.

- Anthony Andro