Kaua'i's Yates called up by Mets

Advertiser Staff and News Services

Right-handed relief pitcher Tyler Yates, a former University of Hawai'i-Hilo and Kaua'i High School athlete, was called up to the major leagues by the New York Mets yesterday.

Yates, 24, will be the first former Vulcan player to reach the major leagues, according to UH-Hilo officials.

Yates, who was playing at Triple-A Norfolk (Va.), was called up when right-hander Satoru Komiyama was put on the 15-day disabled list, a day after cutting the middle finger of his pitching hand while opening his garage door.

Komiyama tried to throw Monday night, but the cut opened up. Mets manager Bobby Valentine said couldn't afford to be a pitcher short after playing 11 innings in Monday's home series opener against Atlanta.

Yates graduated from Kaua'i High in 1995, and played for Hilo from 1996-98. He was drafted in the 23rd round in 1998 by Oakland. In five games with the Norfolk Tide this season, Yates did not give up an earned run in 6á innings. He struck out eight, walked none, and had two saves.

Mets general manager Steve Phillips said Komiyama could be sent to the minor leagues on a rehabilitation assignment. He joked that Komiyama should have had his translator open the garage door.