MLB News: Bobby Abreu Recalled By New York Mets From Triple-A Las Vegas

Veteran outfielder Bobby Abreu has not played in a Major League Baseball game since 2012 but due to the fact that the New York Mets are looking for an offensive boost, the National League club has recalled the 40-year-old from their Minor League affiliate in Las Vegas. Abreu’s last full season came in 2012 where he played 100 combined games with the Los Angeles Angels and L.A. Dodgers but after he was released by the Philadelphia Phillies prior to the start of the season, Abreu wasn’t sure if his career would continue in the MLB. With the Mets always looking for added pop in the lineup along with strong veteran leadership however, the Venezuela native was given another opportunity, something Mets GM Sandy Alderson believes will benefit both parties.

“He’s a professional hitter and we’re looking for somebody that can come off the bench and give us a professional at-bat,” Alderson, who was hired by the Mets following the 2010 baseball season to replace former GM Omar Minaya, said Monday at an event at the VA New York Harbor Healthcare Hospital. “He’s played very well at Vegas. And he’s a great hitting role model for our players. He’s a professional hitter and I think our guys can learn something from him.”

In 17 professional seasons, Abreu owns a career batting average of .292 with 287 home runs and over 1,300 RBI’s. Playing his way onto two All-Star teams as well, Abreu’s career has certainly been a strong one. Due to his recent success with manager Wally Backman and New York’s Triple-A Las Vegas affiliate -- where he batted .395 with four doubles, one home run and nine RBI’s in 15 games -- the Mets felt comfortable with brining the all-around talent back up for another crack at the Major Leagues, something Bobby Abreu couldn’t be happier about.

“I always have fun wherever I go, whatever I do," Abreu said. "Just taking things one day at a time and just enjoying every moment that I have. Just looking to make a comeback as soon as I can and try to do my best in any opportunity they want to give me. Retiring, that's never crossed my mind. As soon as that thought crosses my mind, that's when I'm done. I know I can still play this game. That's all that matters to me. I feel good, physically good.”

To make room for Abreu on the roster the Mets sent down outfielder Andrew Brown, who hit .185 with one homer and a .567 OPS in 30 plate appearances with New York this season.