Cesar Tordesillas

In need of a reliable arm to boost their bullpen, the New York Mets conducted a private workout for closer Brian Wilson in California, according to a baseball source.

A source told ESPN.com that Mets general manager Sandy Alderson watched Wilson prove that he's on track to play on Opening Day after undergoing Tommy John surgery last April.

Wilson was non-tendered by the San Francisco Giants in November after earning $8.5 million in 2012.

The source said the Mets are willing to sign Wilson to a minor-league deal but the closer is eyeing no less than a major league contract.

The Mets already have closer Frank Francisco under contract for the upcoming season at $6.5 million so Wilson would likely be a set up man if he signs with the team.

Francisco underwent surgery in December to remove a bone spur from his right elbow but the Mets declared that he will be ready by spring training.

A three-time All-Star, Wilson's 48 saves in 2010 led the majors and tied a Giants single-season record.

From 2008 through 2011, Wilson allowed only 15.1 percent of inherited runners to score -- the best rate in the majors.

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Mets Conduct Private Workout for Closer Brian Wilson