Diamondbacks send Shawn Green to Mets



Arizona gave New York $6.3 million to help pay the outfielder's salary.
NEW YORK (AP) -- Outfielder Shawn Green was traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the New York Mets Tuesday night, giving the NL East leaders one more big bat as they gear up for the postseason.
The Diamondbacks sent the 33-year-old Green and slightly more than $6.3 million to the Mets for Triple-A pitcher Evan MacLane, a 23-year-old left-hander.
Green, who is owed about $12.75 million for the rest of his contract, reported to the ballpark for the Diamondbacks' game Tuesday night at San Francisco, but only stayed about 10 minutes. He was seen waving to Giants manager Felipe Alou as he left the stadium.
"I'm definitely excited for the opportunity," Green said, speaking from San Francisco International Airport. "I really like the Mets' chances to go to the postseason and have a chance at the World Series."
Clause waived
Green, who waived his no-trade clause, was hitting .283 with 11 home runs and 51 RBIs this season. The two-time All-Star once hit four homers in a game, and has four seasons of at least 100 RBIs. He expects to join the Mets as soon as today.
"I think for Shawn and everybody it's a relief that it's over," Arizona outfielder Luis Gonzalez said. "It's been kind of lingering a little bit. I'm sure it weighed on him. He's an established major league player. It's a good opportunity for him. He has a chance to be in the playoffs. I'm happy for him. I called him right after I got here and found out."
Arizona activated Craig Counsell from the 15-day disabled list to take Green's roster spot. The infielder had been out since July 15 with a broken right rib.
Increased production sought
While the Mets have a dynamic leadoff hitter in Jose Reyes and a strong middle of the order with Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado and David Wright, they were looking for more production in their corner outfield spots.
Oft-injured left fielder Cliff Floyd is on the disabled list for the second time this season and rookie Lastings Milledge has struggled in right field despite showing signs of pop and speed. Utilityman Endy Chavez has played beyond expectations in the outfield.
Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.