The final season of Kazuo Matsui's contract is coming up. But it's possible he might not be spending it at Shea.

The Mets and Devil Rays have talked about the Met second baseman, a baseball official confirmed yesterday.

That does not mean a deal is imminent or likely. In fact, there are issues that would have to be resolved. Matsui has a no-trade clause to all teams but the Yankees, Dodgers and Angels. So even if the Mets and D-Rays end up working something out, Matsui would have to approve it.

Moving Matsui would likely allow the Mets to at least save some money on their payroll. The Japanese infielder, who has been a huge disappointment in his two years in Flushing, is entering the final season of his three-year, $20.1 million deal. He's owed $8 million in 2006, and the Mets would likely have to pay quite a bit of it to move him.

It's also unknown what exactly the Mets would get in return from Tampa in the event of a deal.

The Mets have interest in other second basemen who could man the position next season, including free agents Mark Grudzielanek and Tony Graffanino. The former was not offered arbitration by the Cardinals, according to MLB.com, so if the Mets want to sign him, it will not cost them a draft pick. Graffanino was offered arbitration by the Red Sox.

In addition to determining their second-base situation, the Mets are also talking to teams about starters Kris Benson and Steve Trachsel. GM Omar Minaya is hungry to add another top pitcher.