Mets get pitcher Putz from Seattle

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The New York Mets added more relief pitching by acquiring right-hander J.J. Putz in a three-team trade on Wednesday, Major League Baseball announced on its website.

The deal, set to be finalized on Thursday, involves 12 players sent from the Mets, Mariners and Indians -- with Seattle closer Putz as the centerpiece.

The Mets will also receive outfielder Jeremy Reed and right-hander Sean Green, while the Mariners will pick up Indians' outfielder Franklin Gutierrez, Mets' right-hander Aaron Heilman and outfielder Endy Chavez to go with four minor-leaguers.

Mets right-hander Joe Smith and Seattle infielder Luis Valbuena will be sent to Cleveland.

The moves come a day after it was announced that prized free agent closer Francisco Rodriguez would be signing with the Mets.

Putz is expected to become "K-Rod's" setup man.

Putz served as Seattle's closer over the last two seasons during which he recorded 76 saves. He had 15 saves and a 3.88 ERA during an injury-plagued season last year.

(Reporting by Jahmal Corner; Editing by Peter Rutherford)