#683) DAVID WRIGHT

David Wright changed the face of the New York Mets franchise when he was selected in the first round (38th overall pick) of the free agent draft on June 5, 2001. That pick was given to the Mets as compensation for losing Mike Hampton to the Colorado Rockies in free agency. The talented third baseman made his highly anticipated major league debut on July 21, 2004 in front of the Shea Stadium faithful. His rookie season (although a short 69 games) earned him the honor of "This Year In Baseball Awards" Rookie of the Year. Every season following that David drove in at least 100 runs during his time at Shea. Wright represented the Mets at the All-Star Game in 2006, 2007 and 2008. He was awarded a Rawlings Gold Glove award in 2007 and 2008. David also picked up the Silver Slugger Award for National League third basemen in 2007 and 2008. All earned while serving as the "unofficial" team captain and leader.

David grew up following the New York Mets as a youth in Norfolk, Virginia. He regularly attended games of the Tidewater Tides, the Triple-A affiliate of the Mets. "I love being a Met." Wright said. "It was my favorite team growing up, so to be a Met to me is very special." In 2005 he established the David Wright Foundation. A charitable organization that raises money for various multiple sclerosis organizations and projects. The man who has become known throughout baseball for his unaffected politeness and unquestionable work ethic serves as possibly the greatest example of a New York Met during Shea Stadium history.

On March 21, 2013 the club officially named David as the team captain. "This is probably one of the proudest days of my career so far," Wright said. "To be viewed in this light, both by ownership, by Sandy (Alderson, Genreal Manager) and the front office, by the coaching staff, and probably most importantly by the players—It means a great deal to me, and is something that I am very appreciative of."

David Wright signed the back of a team issued postcard for me when the New York Mets faced the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ballpark on September 5, 2007. I converted that into his card in the set.