Mets And Las Vegas 51's Sign Player Development Contract

The Mets announced this evening that they have signed a player development contract with the Las Vegas 51's. Here's the press release.

FLUSHING, N.Y., September 17, 2012 – The New York Mets today announced they have signed a two-year player development contract with the Las Vegas 51s, which will be the club’s new Triple-A affiliate.  The 51s play in the Pacific Coast League and have Cashman Field as their home stadium.  

"We are excited about our new partnership with the Las Vegas 51s and the city of Las Vegas, one which values equally player development, winning and community involvement," said Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson.

 “We are familiar with many of the front office personnel with the Mets,” said 51s Executive Director Don Logan. “I’ve known Sandy Alderson for 20 years to go along with J.P. Ricciardi, Paul DePodesta, Dick Scott and Terry Collins.  These individuals are all very familiar with Las Vegas from the time they spent here with other organizations. We are excited to welcome the Mets as our new Triple-A affiliate.”

The Las Vegas franchise, most recently associated with the Toronto Blue Jays, has topped 300,000 in attendance for all its 30 seasons (1983-2012).   The team has been affiliated with the Blue Jays (2009-2012), Dodgers (2001-2008) and Padres (1983-2000).

Yes, this is inconvenient, but it is what it is. With the Mets having played the way they have the last few years, and the fact that this is the team's third (fourth? I lost track...) triple-A affiliate in the last few years, let's be happy anybody wanted to house this team.

Besides, if faced with the decision of going to check out the Mets' triple-A team, where would you rather go, Vegas or Buffalo?