McCOMB — Alonzo Harris quietly slipped on his New York Mets capWednesday afternoon, because now he knew it was official. He wasthe newest member of the Mets.

Harris signed a minor league baseball contract with the MetsWednesday, after being drafted by the club in early June. He willreport to the organization’s Rookie Level system as a member ofGulf Coast Mets next month to begin his pro career in Port St.Lucie, Fla.

“I’m really excited and ready to get started,” said Harris.”This is something I’ve only dreamed about.”

Drafted in early June by the Mets in the 39th round of MLBDraft, Harris signed a lucrative deal with the organization whichincluded a signing bonus package plus incentives and a club/playeroption of 4-years of college education paid for.

“I’m happy about signing,” added Harris. “And I can’t wait tostart and report and get back to playing again.”

Harris has been working and practicing daily, the Mets feel goodabout his potential at the next level.

“He’s really quick and raw,” said Mets assistant scoutingdirector Benny Latino. “He’s got some power too.”

As a senior at McComb High this season, Harris batted .540 with25 singles, 11 home runs, 11 doubles, and 3 triples, for 45 RBI. Healso stole 30 bases and scored 60 runs.

He was selected The DAILY LEADER’s Mr. Baseball and MostValuable Player on the 2007 All-Area Dream Team.

Harris stole seven bases in the Mississippi Class 5A/4A All-StarGame in June. At McComb, Harris played a variety of positions fromshortstop, second base, outfield, and pitcher. Harris is runs aconsistent 4.4 forty yard dash, and has been time as fast as a 6.5in the 60-yard dash.

He also starred at quarterback for the McComb football team. Herushed for over 1,000 yards. He had signed a baseball scholarshipwith Southwest Mississippi Community College.

The Mets have Harris penciled to start as a secondbaseman/outfielder in the minor leagues.

“Harris is a fast player and a quick learner with AlfonsoSoriano type tools,” said Mets Regional Scout James O. Covington.”He really works hard, and he gets the most out of every at-bat hesees.”

Harris is the son of Alonzo Harris Sr. and Charlotte Harris ofMcComb, he is the first player drafted straight out of McComb HighSchool. In school history, Harris joins such McComb Tiger productsas former Mississippi State Bulldog Pete Young (1989- MontrealExpos), and Southwest alums Pat Barnes (2005-Washington Nationals),and Jarrod Dyson (2006-Kansas City Royals).

“This is a dream come true,” said his father, Alonzo Sr. “I knoweveryone around here will be pulling for him.”