Posted on: Monday, July 9, 2001

Agbayani takes break for first child

Advertiser Staff

The All-Star break won't be a typical vacation for Benny Agbayani.

The New York Mets' outfielder became a father for the first time Saturday afternoon, when his wife, Niela, gave birth to a daughter, Aliah.

Aliah weighed in at 7 pounds, 8 ounces.

The former St. Louis star left the Mets two days before the All-Star break to return to Hawai'i for the birth.

Agbayani's presence for the birth was not guaranteed, as the Mets' roster has been hit with injuries. Manager Bobby Valentine even suggested setting up an Internet feed for Agbayani to witness the birth.

However, Agbayani missed the Mets' games with the Yankees on Saturday and yesterday.

Agbayani, who is hitting .266 with four home runs and 17 RBIs, is expected to rejoin the Mets for their Thursday game against the Boston Red Sox at Shea Stadium.