Victor Diaz and Royce Ring, two of the prospects Duquette acquired in 2003, are now major leaguers.

Heath Bell and Royce Ring were also not particularly adept at stopping a team making less money than Carlos Beltrán this season.

But Royce Ring walked Jim Thome, and Heilman hit Pat Burrell, then gave up three straight singles, a wild pitch and a walk.

Randolph then brought in Royce Ring from the bullpen to get the third out.

Kazuhisa Ishii, Tim Hamulack and Royce Ring are the only other left-handed relievers on the Mets' 40-man roster.

The most popular are Matt Peterson, Bob Keppel and Royce Ring, all of whom are in spring training.

The Mets' preference is to sign a closer for one year and hope that prospects, among them Royce Ring, are ready a year from now.

The most tantalizing option may be Royce Ring, a former No. 1 pick of the Chicago White Sox who was acquired for Roberto Alomar in 2003.

Randolph said the Mets would soon recall Heath Bell or Royce Ring, or both.

Last night, the Mets placed him on the 15-day disabled list and recalled another left-hander, Royce Ring.