The New York Mets would like to re-sign starting pitcher Mike Pelfrey, but will only do so when he becomes a free agent, a source has told the New York Post's Mike Puma. Pelfrey, who's recovering from season-ending Tommy John surgery, could be offered a one-year tender by the Mets; however, the organization will look to sign him at a better price when he hits the free-agent market.

According to Puma, if the Mets were to tender the righty, he could earn almost $6 million in 2013. Because of his injury, New York could get him at a reduced rate if it can sign him as a free agent. Last offseason, the 28-year-old signed a one-year, $5.68 million deal.

Last season, Pelfrey made just three starts before being shutdown because of a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. Before that, Pelfrey had never gone on the disabled list and compiled a 50-54 career record with a 4.36 earned run average.