In an effort to save money that could go toward Mo Vaughn or Juan Gonzalez, the Mets decided not to offer setup man Rick White a contract yesterday.

White, who made $1.15 million, is now free to negotiate with any team. With the acquisition of David Weathers, White’s role on the team became unclear and the money he would’ve made will go elsewhere.

White, 33 Sunday, was 4-5 with a 3.88 ERA in 55 games last season. He struck out 51 and walked 17 in 692/3 innings.

All players on the 40-man roster had to be offered a contract by yesterday or they became free agents.