#691) BRIAN BUCHANAN

Brian Buchanan signed with the New York Mets as a free agent on August 25, 2004. Just days before the September roster expansion the club found themselves in need of an outfielder. Brian had been designated for assignment by the San Diego Padres. "We've been battling through a period here and maybe Buchanan can provide us with some offensive spark, especially against left-handers," General Manager, Jim Duquette said. "We'll see if he provides some pop."

Brian joined the Mets very briefly. A total of only five days. He appeared in two games (both of which occurred at Shea Stadium), getting three at-bats without a hit, before he was designated for assignment on August 30th. Relief pitcher, Mike DeJean was placed on the disabled list and Brian was replaced with Heath Bell. After clearing waivers, Buchanan accepted an assignment to Triple-A Norfolk. The Tides season ended five games after he arrived. Brian was not offered an opportunity to return to New York even after the rosters expanded to close the season. He signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on December 17, 2004.

Buchanan ended his 16-year professional playing career, that included five years in the major leagues, and became the manager of the Kansas City Royals' Rookie-level team in Idaho Falls in 2010.

Brian Buchanan signed his card in the set for my friend, Tim before the Omaha Royals faced the Round Rock Express in Texas on April 14, 2009.