FLUSHING, N.Y., November 16, 2012 - The New York Mets today announced the club signed infielder/outfielder Brian Bixler to a minor league contract with an invitation to major league Spring Training.

Bixler, 30, split last season between Houston and the organization's Triple-A club, Oklahoma of the Pacific Coast League. The 6-1, 195-native of Sandusky, OH, made Houston's Opening Day roster and in 36 games with the Astros, he hit .193 (17-88) with two home runs and seven RBI. Bixler, who hits and throws righthanded, appeared in 75 games with the RedHawks last season, going 67-249 (.269) with three home runs and 19 RBI.

Originally selected by Pittsburgh in the second round of the 2004 First-Year Player Draft, Bixler, made his major league debut in 2008 with the Pirates. He also spent time in Cleveland and Washington's organization, appearing in 79 games with Nationals in 2011. Over 183 major league games, Bixler is a .189 (61-323) hitter with two home runs and 14 RBI.