[mets2k]

Mets sign David Newhan

mets.com

David Newhan, who has started major league games at six different positions, today signed a one-year major league contract with the New York Mets.

Newhan's 2006 season with the Baltimore Orioles was limited to 39 games because of a fractured right fibula. He suffered the injury while stealing second base in the first inning of the April 17th game vs. the Los Angeles Angels.

Dave, a 33-year-old lefthanded hitter, has played in the big leagues with the San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies and Orioles. He hit .252 (33-131) with four doubles, four home runs and 18 RBI in 2006.

"David is a versatile player who can help us in so many spots on the field," said Mets General Manager Omar Minaya. "We couldn't be more pleased to have him in our organization."

In his career, Newhan has played in four games at first base (one start), 28 games at second base (14 starts), 28 games at third base (16 starts), 56 games in leftfield (50 starts), 51 games in centerfield (47 starts) and 62 games in rightfield (36 starts).

In 808 major leagues, the Yorba Linda, CA native has compiled a .256 (207-808) batting average with 31 doubles, one triple 20 home runs and 102 RBI. In 95 games with the Orioles in 2004, Newhan hit .311 (116-373) with a career-best eight home runs and 54 RBI.

Newhan, who was born in Fullerton, CA, graduated from Pepperdine University in 1995.