Mets Look to Dominican for Next Big Thing

In July of 2005, the Mets signed outfielder, Fernando Martinez out of the Dominican Republic for roughly $1.4 million. At the time the signing was seen as a pivotal move in making the Mets a winning franchise following the acquisitions of Pedro Martinez and Carlos Beltran . Almost four years later, Fernando has finally broken into the big leagues. He is off to somewhat of a slow start (.180 average., 1 HR and 8 RBI in 89 at-bats); however, his play has improved as of late and it makes it look more and more like the signing will be a success. Today is the first day of the international free agent signing period and the Mets have signed LHP Juan Urbina. Urbina, who is the son of the troubled former MLB pitcher Ugueth Urbina, is only 16 years of age. The team appears to be very committed to him as they have rewarded him with a large signing bonus worth around $1.2 million. Similarly to Fernando Martinez, Urbina has a great deal of upside and the potential to be the Mets’ next top ... (link)