Mets bring aboard DePaoli as team's CRO

The Mets have named Lou DePaoli executive vice president and chief revenue officer, a newly created position within the organization.

DePaoli, who has been executive vice president and chief marketing officer for the Pirates since 2008, will be responsible for leading the strategic development and management of all revenue generation for the Mets beginning July 22.

"This is an exciting time to join the Mets," DePaoli said in a statement. "There's a tremendous opportunity to grow and expand our connection to current and future ticket purchasers, fans and partners at a time when the future on field is also very promising."

After DePaoli joined the Pirates, the club saw baseball's fourth-largest percent increase in attendance between 2009 and 2012, and attained the second-highest attendance in team history in '12 (including 17 sellouts). Partnership revenues are on pace to be the highest in team history this year, according to a Mets release.

"Lou's vast experience in driving revenues in multiple areas in multiple sports uniquely qualifies him to lead this key position on our senior management team," Mets COO Jeff Wilpon said in a statement. "Lou's track record, creativity and analytic approach will help us better connect with fans and partners and potential fans and partners."

DePaoli graduated from the University of Massachusetts, where he earned his degree in Management of Professional Sports Organizations. He has also served in various vice president roles for the Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Thrashers, Florida Marlins and the NBA.