#776) NICK EVANS

Nick Evans was selected by the New York Mets in the fifth round of the free agent draft on June 7, 2004. He made his major-league debut with the Mets on May 24, 2008. Evans started in left field that game and clubbed three doubles off the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Nick had been called up from Double-A Binghamton when New York outfielder, Marlon Anderson went on the disabled list. "I was very nervous," the 22-year old rookie said following the game. "I haven't really eaten." Evans was optioned back to Binghamton on June 6th after struggling with a .174 batting average in nine games.

A natural first baseman throughout his career, Nick continued to learn the outfield in the minor-leagues. Evans was returned to the major-league roster when Ryan Church was placed on the disabled list on July 8th. Forming a left field platoon with his close friend, and fellow rookie, Daniel Murphy when he was also promoted on August 2nd. "Nick and I are just trying to put together quality at-bats," explained Murphy. Both young men were recognized as students of hitting and often dissected one another's plate appearances. "We've seen probably almost 700 or 800 of each other's at-bats in the last two years, so we know each other pretty well," Evans said. "So, if you see something, we do not hesitate to let the other guy know."

Nick was the starting left fielder for the final game played at Shea Stadium. He finished the 2008 season with a .257 batting average, two home runs, and nine RBIs during 50 game appearances.

Nick Evans signed his card in the set for me following the Buffalo Bisons and Indianapolis Indians game at Victory Field on July 27, 2009.