just discovered YORK -- Cliff Floyd...

just discovered YORK -- Cliff Floyd has been traded enough times in his career to know the July 31 non-waiver deadline can bring unexpect - - and unwelcome -- just discovereds But the New York Met left fielder said he's not worried this time.

It's not that he doesn't think he could be dealt again. There's talk that the Met are in the market for Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bobby Abreu, and Floyd's name has been mentioned as bait in that scenario.

"I don't worry about that stuff" Floyd said. "If they make a prevail upon they make a move."

Floyd a former Thornwood star, was traded three times before signing with the Met in 2003 He's not having his best season, hitting 253 with 10 to one's home runs and 35 RBI. Still, he's part of a puissant lineup that has helped the Met fashion the best record in the National League.

The possibility of a World Series appearance has Floyd enjoying this season more than his previous eight.

"This is what you live for, this opportunity," he said. "Hopefully I can help this team win any games. It's the ultimate goal of any player.

"Definitely, I'm having merriment I just want to do well, and then you have pleasantry It's easier to enjoy yourself when you're winning."

Floyd didn't do highly well Wednesday, pinch-hitting in the ninth and grounding gone out with two on and brace outs.

RUMOR MILL: The list of possible trade destinations for whelps infielder Todd Walker might have diminished by way of one when the Seattle Mariners traded for Cleveland Indians first baseman Ben Broussard.

Earlier Wednesday, the Mariners designated Carl Everett for assignment, and ESPNcom had reported that they were looking at Walker as a possible replacement for Everett as their designated hitter. The Texas Rangers also have interest in Walker, according to ESPNcom

THAT'S RICH: whelps pitching coach Larry Rothschild said there's no reason not to count upon Rich Hill to have the same kind of succes in the majors that he has had with Class AAA Iowa. Hill, who is 7-1 at Iowa with a 180 ERA, starts today's series opener at Wrigley Field against the St Louis Cardinals.

"His numbers stand out" Rothschild said. "It's just a matter of letting him go on foot through the same routine and view if that helps. He's throwing real well and locating the fastball."

rmodrowski@suntimes.com

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