June 14, 2002

VILLANOVA, PA. - Villanova senior Brendan Mannix (Crofton, Md./ Archbishop Spalding) signed a free agent contract with the New York Mets, becoming the third player from the 2002 Wildcat team to earn a spot in the professional ranks. In the 2002 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft on June 4-5, Villanova had two players drafted with junior right-handed pitcher Brian Slocum going in the second round, 63rd overall, to the Cleveland Indians and senior first baseman Rob Cafiero going in the 32nd round, 959th overall, by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Mannix will now report to the New York Mets' short-season Class A team, the Brooklyn Cyclones, where he will play against both Slocum and Cafiero in the New York Penn League. Slocum will play for the Indians' affiliate, the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, while Cafiero will suit up for the Phillies' short-season Class A affiliate, the Batavia Muckdogs.

"Our coaching staff is really happy for Brendan (Mannix) because of the effort that he put forth this year as a Wildcat senior," said Villanova head coach Joe Godri. "Being a free agent signee with the New York Mets is a great way to cap off his most successful season with the `Cats. He has a lot to offer as a player, being a switch hitter with a great deal of versatility. He can play four positions - third base, first base, catcher, and left field."

Mannix was one of the Big East's break-out players this season. He had a career year in 2002, hitting .338 with 13 doubles, nine home runs and 41 RBI. In conference play, Mannix batted .341 with seven doubles, seven home runs and 30 RBI in 25 games. For his efforts, he was named to the All-Big East second team.