Say Hello to d'Arnaud


The Mets introduced another of their key building blocks to the home fans last night, catcher Travis d'Arnaud. One of two highly touted prospects acquired in last winter's trade that sent R.A. Dickey trade to Toronto, d'Arnaud made his major league debut on the road in San Diego.

He received a warm welcome at the beginning of the game and each of his first three (unsuccessful) at-bats. Then, in the bottom of the 8th inning, after going hitless his first 10 times up, he broke through with a booming double into the left field gap -- which earned him his first Citi Field standing ovation. Take a look at the picture to the right -- doesn't d'Arnaud seem to be watching the ball travel?

It was also a night when the Mets home run apple arose not once, but twice -- this is just after Marlon Byrd's three-run blast in the 6th inning.

I know, it's a small sample. But after 6-1/2 discouraging seasons, don't the Mets fans deserve a ray of hope?

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