Fernando Martinez Claimed By Astros; Mets, Hairston Finalize Deal
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) — The Mets have officially waived goodbye to failed top prospect Fernando Martinez.
The Houston Astros claimed the player known as F-Mart off waivers from the Mets on Wednesday.
Martinez hit .227 (5 for 22) for the Mets last season with one home run — at Houston against Bud Morris on May 13.
The 23-year-old Martinez spent most of the year at Triple-A Buffalo and hit .260 with eight homers and 30 RBIs. He has a .183 career big league average with two homers and 12 RBIs in 131 at-bats over parts of three seasons.
According to the Newark Star-Ledger, the Mets believed Martinez couldn't be counted on with his history of injuries. Martinez was diagnosed with mild arthritis in his right knee after the 2010 season.
Also on Wednesday, the Mets finalized a $1.1 million, one-year contract with reserve outfielder Scott Hairston.
The 31-year-old hit .235 with seven homers and 24 RBIs in 132 at-bats last season. His three pinch-homers were one shy of the team record.
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