#422) KEVIN BASS

Kevin Bass was traded by the San Francisco Giants to the New York Mets in exchange for Rob Katzaroff on August 8, 1992. Mets fans remembered the outfielder as the man that struck out, with two runners on base, to end the legendary 16-inning Game Six of the 1986 National League Championship Series. A year that also saw Bass a member of the National League All-Star team with the Houston Astros.

The trade was initially made for a player to be named later, and was in response to both Bobby Bonilla and Howard Johnson finding themselves on the disabled list. Actually in a season full of injuries, Mets third baseman, Dave Magadan fractured his wrist the same day that Bass was added to the team. "All I foresee is a chance to play," said Kevin. "But, one guy can maybe ignite a different attitude with his air or flair. I'm not saying I'm necessarily that guy."

After a slow start Bass finished with a .270 batting average, two home runs, and nine RBIs in the 46 games he played for the Mets to close the 1992 season. His second home run coming at Shea Stadium to defeat the Braves on September 2nd. A blow that contributed to ending Atlanta's consecutive win streak in New York at 10 games. "Produce and you'll play," Bass told reporters following the game. "Those are my main thoughts."

He would sign as a free agent with the Houston Astros on January 7, 1993.

Kevin Bass beautifully signed his card in the set for my friend, Wendy at an Alumni Autograph Session held before the Houston Astros faced the Cincinnati Reds at Minute Maid Park on September 19, 2010.