NEW YORK, 21 December 2003 — The New York Mets on Friday signed utility man Joe McEwing to a two-year contract.
McEwing, who was eligible for salary arbitration, is guaranteed $1 million for the two years of the deal. He played seven different positions for the Mets last year, batting .241 with 31 runs, 11 doubles, one home run, 16 RBI and three stolen bases in 119 games.
“Joe can help you in so many different ways,” Mets general manager Jim Duquette said. “His versatility allows (manager) Art (Howe) to have many different options throughout a game.” The 31-year-old McEwing showed his versatility in playing five games at first base, 55 at second base, including 42 starts, two games at third base, 42 contests at shortstop, 16 in left field, one game in center field and two in right field.
“I’m excited about staying in New York and continuing to be a part of the Mets organization,” said McEwing, who is batting .242 in four seasons with the Mets.
Phillies Hurler Millwood Accepts Arbitration
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, free agent Kevin Millwood accepted salary arbitration from the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday, binding the right-hander to the Major League baseball club for a second season. Millwood waited until just before the deadline to accept the arbitration offer and could still work a multiyear deal with the Phillies.
Millwood, who turns 29 on Dec. 24, was 14-12 with a 4.01 ERA in 35 starts for the Phillies last season, his first in Philadelphia. His three shutouts tied for the National League lead and he finished in the top 10 for innings (222.0), complete games (five) and strikeouts (185).
