#497) KEVIN ROBERSON

Kevin Roberson joined the New York Mets organization when he signed a minor-league free agent contract on November 12, 1995. The switch-hitting outfielder was invited to spring training camp in February. Roberson was taking part in team physicals when a routine blood test became eventful. "Sometimes when I take those tests, I start to feel like that," Kevin said. "I can't explain it. I just feel a little light-headed." He had to lie down for 10 minutes before the test could be completed.

Roberson earned the final outfield spot on the Opening Day roster after showing a quick bat with power. The slugger recorded five home runs in Florida. He made his New York Mets debut on April 3, 1996. Kevin delivered a pinch-hit single off Dennis Eckersley in the ninth inning of New York's 5-3 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals at Shea Stadium.

Kevin got his first start of the season on April 27th. Manager Dallas Green was looking for help to shake up a struggling lineup. Roberson responded with a ninth inning three-run home run to help the Mets rally to a 7-4 win over the Pirates in Pittsburgh. He showed too much inconsistency at the plate to become the regular right fielder. The Mets chose to promote a highly-touted Alex Ochoa from the minor leagues to fill the position. Roberson appeared in 27 games before being outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk on June 1st where he finished the season with the Tides. He ended up with three home runs, 9 RBIs, and a .222 batting average at the major league level.

Kevin left the organization when he signed as a free agent with the San Francisco Giants on November 25, 1996.

I created Kevin Roberson's card in the set from an autographed index card purchased from Kyle's Sportcards on November 20, 2011.