Mets, Rick Ankiel agree on one-year deal; will start in CF tonight
The Mets reportedly signed free-agent Rick Ankiel to a one-year deal. (Bob Levey/Getty Images)
The New York Mets, who are in desperate need for some outfield pop at the plate, signed free-agent outfielder Rick Ankiel to a one-year deal, reports ESPN.com.
Newsday reports that Ankiel will start at center field and bat seventh for the Mets tonight in St. Louis to begin a four-game set against the Cardinals.
Ankiel, 33, was hitting .194 but had five home runs and 11 RBI in 25 games before the Houston Astros released him last week.
The Mets have platooned the likes of Marlon Byrd, Colin Cowgill, Mike Baxter and Lucas Duda in the outfield this season. Those four players have a combined 12 homers this season.
The Mets' .691 OPS is 24th in the majors and they have scored a total of 14 runs over the past six games, and have lost four of those contests.
