Jupiter, Fla. ? The New York Mets traded outfielder Roger Cedeno to the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday for backup catcher Chris Widger and infielder Wilson Delgado.

The speedy Cedeno was a huge disappointment after signing an $18 million, four-year contract with the Mets before the 2002 season. The Cardinals also get cash considerations in the deal.

“It was the best thing for everybody involved. Roger gets a fresh start, and we can move on,” Mets general manager Jim Duquette said.

Widger and Delgado are expected to start the season in the minors, although Widger could refuse the assignment and ask for his release.

Cedeno is expected to join the Cardinals today. The 29-year-old switch-hitter is a .275 career hitter with 37 home runs, 243 RBIs and 208 stolen bases. He’s also played for Los Angeles (1995-98), Houston (2000) and Detroit (2001).

During his first stint with the Mets, Cedeno stole 66 bases and batted .313 in 1999.