Originally Posted by Kanadesaga

Mets sign right-handed pitcher Tony Armas Jr.



FLUSHING -- The New York Mets today signed right-handed pitcher Tony Armas, Jr. to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.

Armas, 29, spent the entire 2007 season as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 31 games, 15 of which were starts, the Puerto Piritu, Venezuela native posted a 4-5 record with a 6.03 ERA. In 97.0 innings of work, he allowed 65 earned runs on 111 hits while walking 38 and striking out 73. Armas posted a 4.27 ERA (29 earned runs/ 59.2 innings) from July 1st through the end of the season.

The 6-3, 225 pound hurler broke into the major leagues in 1999 with Montreal, pitching for the Expos and then the Washington Nationals for eight seasons. Over his nine-year career, Armas has collected a record of 52-65 with a 4.62 ERA. In 917.1 innings he has allowed 512 runs, 471 earned, on 880 hits while walking 430 and striking out 674.

Armas, Jr. is the son of former All-Star outfielder Tony Armas, who lead the American League in home runs in1981 and 1984. Armas, Jr. came up with the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox organizations and was eventually traded along with Carl Pavano for Pedro Martinez in 1997.

Armas is the 23rd non-roster invitee to Mets spring training.