Kaua'i's Yates lasts one day in majors

Advertiser Staff and News Services

Kaua'i's Tyler Yates, a right-handed relief pitcher recalled by the New York Mets Tuesday, was optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk (Va.) after yesterday's 2-1 loss to the Atlanta Braves, according to a Mets spokesman.

Yates was seen on ESPN's telecast warming in the bullpen during yesterday's game.

He was recalled to replace right-hander Satoru Komiyama, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list after cutting the middle finger of his pitching hand while trying to open a garage door. The Mets used five relief pitchers in an 11-inning game against the Braves Monday.

The Mets replaced Yates by purchasing the contract of 32-year-old right-hander Pete Walker, who was 0-0 with a 3.00 ERA in two starts with Norfolk. Walker has 19 career major league appearances dating to 1995 with the Mets, San Diego and Colorado.

"I understand the situation," Yates told Newsday.

Yates is a 1995 graduate of Kaua'i High. After playing at Hawai'i-Hilo from 1996-98, he signed with the Oakland Athletics, who made him a 23rd-round draft pick in 1996. In December, Yates was traded with pitcher Mark Guthrie from the Athletics to the Mets for outfielder David Justice.

Before his recall, Yates had pitched 6á scoreless innings of relief with two saves at Norfolk.