Mets re-sign OF Tatis

Oct 30, 2008 - 11:30 PM FLUSHING, New York (Ticker) -- The New York Mets on Thursday rewarded Fernando Tatis for a unexpectedly solid season by signing the 33-year-old outfielder to a one-year deal.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Tatis, who had been out of baseball since 2006, hit .297 with 11 home runs and 47 RBI in 92 games after having his contract purchased from Class AAA New Orleans on May 13. His season came to an end on September 16 when he suffered a shoulder strain.

Tatis had been toiling in New Orleans before injuries to Moises Alou and Ryan Church forced him into the major league lineup. Once in Flushing, he proved his worth by hitting .392 (29-for-74) with runners in scoring position.

"Fernando got so many key hits for us last year," Mets general manager Omar Minaya said. "Not having him the last few weeks of the season certainly hurt. His versatility certainly makes us a better team."

Tatis said the injury that ended his season prematurely is not a concern.

"I feel fine," he said. "I didn't need surgery and I will be ready to go in the spring."