RHP Vic Black acquired from Pittsburgh
FLUSHING, N.Y., August 29, 2013 - The New York Mets today announced the team acquired righthanded pitcher Vic Black from the Pittsburgh Pirates as the player to be named later to complete the August 27 transaction that sent outfielder Marlon Byrd, catcher John Buck and cash considerations to the Pirates. The Mets earlier received minor league infielder Dilson Herrera in the deal.
Black, 25, appeared in three games with the Pirates this year, posting a 4.50 ERA (two earned runs/4.0 innings) without a decision. The 6-4, 215-pounder also was 5-3 with 17 saves and a 2.51 ERA (13 earned runs/46.2 innings) in 53 games with Indianapolis (AAA) of the International League. Black allowed 28 hits, issued 21 walks and struck out 63 while holding opponents to a .169 batting average against.
The Amarillo, TX native was the 49th overall selection in the 2009 First Year Player Draft from Dallas Baptist University. He was a mid-season All-Star selection last season with Altoona (AA) of the Eastern League. Black went 2-3 with a 1.65 ERA (11 earned runs/60.0 innings) in 2012. He allowed 40 hits, issued 29 walks and struck out 85 batters.
Over the course of five minor league seasons, Black has compiled an 11-9 record with 32 saves and a 3.08 ERA (61 earned runs/178.1 innings) with 217 strikeouts. He was originally drafted in the 41st round of the 2006 First Year Player Draft by the Mets, but did not sign.