Gary Sheffield Hits 500th Homer (Image: Newscom)

Sheffield’s homer actually was very helpful for the Mets. With New York trailing by a run in the bottom of the seventh, Sheffield’s solo shot tied the score. In the bottom of the ninth, the Mets got the winning run when Luis Castillo hit an infield single and scored Carlos Delgado from third base.

The 40-year-old Sheffield has already been through a lot in the 2009 season. Before the season began, he was released by the Detroit Tigers. After flirting with a host of teams, Sheffield decided to sign with the Mets.

Not only was that Sheffield’s first homer of the season, it was also his first hit. In seven previous at-bats, he had walked three times and struck out twice.

Post from: EveryJoe

Gary Sheffield Hits 500th Home Run

Gary Sheffield joins New York Mets (Image: Newscom)

The most interesting aspect of this transaction will be how the Mets find at-bats for Sheffield. In the past, he has said that he wouldn’t be happy with a reserve role. With the Mets, they could possibly mix him into the outfield rotation and also play him a little bit at first base.

Sheffield’s first home run for the Mets will be a significant one. With 499 homers, Sheffield needs just one more long ball to join the exclusive 500 club.

The Mets will be the eighth team of Sheffield’s career. He has previously played for the Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, Florida Marlins, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees and the Tigers.

Teams that were thought to be possible Sheffield destination were the Braves, Cincinnati Reds and Philadelphia Phillies.

Post from: EveryJoe

Gary Sheffield Inks Deal with the Mets