Mets pick up option on OF Alou, re-sign IF Easley

Oct 31, 2007 - 9:04 PM FLUSHING, New York (Ticker) - The New York Mets on Wednesday picked up the club option on outfielder Moises Alou and re-signed infielder Damion Easley.

Alou, who hit a team-high .341 last season, will make $7.5 million in 2008.

The 41-year-old had 13 home runs and 49 RBI, but played in only 87 games while battling a left quad injury. In his first season with the Mets, Alou amassed a franchise-record 30-game hitting streak from August 23-September 26.

"Last year, Moises showed us what type of hitter he was," Mets general manager Omar Minaya said. "He's coming back on a mission, to help us play a significant part in helping us get back to the postseason."

Alou has hit 332 home runs with a .303 batting average during his 16-year career.

Easley hit .280 with 10 home runs and 26 RBI in 76 games last season.

The 10 home runs were the most for Easley since he hit 11 in 2001 for the Detroit Tigers.

The 37-year-old played 39 games last season at second base and also spent time at first and third base, as well as left field and right field.

"Damion Easley is a valuable component to the team, in the infield, the outfielder or off the bench," Minaya said.

Easley's deal is for one year and is worth $950,000.