T.J. Rivera: Possible Future Met


Since the amateur draft was instituted 50 years ago, it's become rare to see a player suit up with his hometown team. The Mets already have one on their roster in Long Island-born pitcher Steven Matz. And they might soon have another. Infielder T.J. Rivera actually grew up in the Yankees' home borough, the Bronx. But the Mets signed him in 2011 after he went undrafted coming out of Troy University in Alabama. Steadily advancing through the club's farm system, Rivera has hit well everywhere he's played. Last year, he batted over .340 at Double-A Binghamton -- and then .306 in 54 games for Triple-A Las Vegas.

Now, he's in camp with the Mets for the first time, and has opened some eyes. While Neil Walker, David Wright and Wilmer Flores rank ahead of him in the depth chart, an injury or trade could create an unexpected opportunity. If Rivera keeps hitting during the Grapefruit League, and when the minor league starts, he might find his way to Citi Field sometime soon -- continuing a tradition that also includes such homegrown favorites as Ed Kranepool, Lee Mazzilli and John Franco.

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