Former Met of the Day: Angel Pagan (2008-2009)

Angel Pagan was born July 2, 1981 in Puerto Rico. Pagan was originally signed by the Mets in 1999 but his contract was bought by the Cubs. He got injured early on in 2006 and only played outfield in 77 games for the Cubs batting .247. He became the 1st player in MLB history to hit his first two HRs on his birthday. The HRs came against the cross town rival White sox in inter league play. In 2007 he became the Cubs everyday outfielder but he suffered from colitis & his season was cut short again. In 71 games he batted .264 with 4 HRs. The Cubs traded him to the Mets for 2 minor leaguers.

After a good Spring Training, he started 2008 as the Mets everyday left fielder because Moises Alou went on the DL. In 31 games he hit .275 with 13 RBIs after a hot start. He injured his shoulder catching a fly ball and landing in the stands at Dodger Stadium. He ended up on the DL and on his comeback he re injured it & needed surgery, his season was done. In 2009 he started out hot and was hitting .333 in 14 games with 42 at bats. On June 1st, he joined plenty of other injured Mets on the DL and his spot was filled by Alex Cora getting reactivated.

Pagan had trouble with the law in Port St. Lucie in May 2009, he was stopped for speeding & was caught with a suspended license. He also was found to have outstanding traffic tickets and he was arrested.