The Hot Stove rumors about David Wright are both true and false. True: the Mets will trade write. False: a deal with the Colorado Rockies is in the works.

New York Mets general manager Sandy Alderson has an impeccable sense of timing. Moving Wright is no longer a matter of if, but when.

While Alderson has openly admitted that no one is off limits, he also knows dealing Wright – and his $15 million contract — now would be ill-advised. With Jose Reyes, Francisco Rodriguez and Carlos Beltran gone and Johan Santana’s return in limbo, Wright is far and away the “face” of the organization.

Trading Wright now would be poor public relations and marketing. Fans are still buzzing about Reyes’ departure; imagine wiping out the entire left side of the infield? Whatever optimism or hope that Met fans are clinging to would evaporate – along with already struggling ticket sales. The Mets — no, the Wilpon’s — need every last dime to maintain control of ownership.

Remember, Citi Field will shrink in 2012. The walls will shorten, the fences will come in and Wright’s power numbers will likely improve exponentially. At 29, Wright’s value will increase, and his talent in high demand come mid-July, when playoff-ready teams are looking for pieces in the hunt for October. Contenders would be salivating to acquire his bat, his glove and his $16 million contract option for 2013.

Dealing Wright is a long-term resolution for the Mets. Alderson will expect multiple parts and pieces in return, to fill current voids and future full-time openings on the Mets roster. With limited budget (estimated $90-$100 million), freeing up $16 million in 2013 is enticing. For a GM like Alderson he can use that kind of money to acquire two, three, maybe four players.

What if the Mets are in contention for the newly minted Wild Card slot this season? Please. Really? By July 2012, reality will set in. The sting of Reyes will be gone, the Mets will be fighting to play .500 baseball and our attention span will shorten. Blogs will be debating over if and when Jeurys Familia, Reese Havens, Brad Holt, Wilmer Flores and Matt Harvey should be promoted for a look-see.

Alderson will recognize the timing is ripe to make his move. By July, Wright’s name will be floated in trade rumors. Then, as the deadline nears, the Mets will pull the trigger and Wright will exit New York.

Timing is everything.