Mets Sign Alou to play Left Field

The New York Mets announced today that they have signed free agent outfielder Moises Alou to a one-year, $7.5 million contract with a club option for 2008.

Alou, 40, hit .301 (104-345) with 52 runs scored, 25 doubles, one triple, 22 home runs and 74 RBI in 98 games for the San Francisco Giants last season. In addition, the 6-3, 225-pound righthanded batter had a .352 on-base percentage and a .571 slugging mark, while reaching the 20-home run plateau for the ninth time in his career.

"Moises Alou is one of the game's top hitters," said Mets General Manager Omar Minaya. "He'll add a valuable righthanded bat to our line-up."