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The Mets have traded outfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis.

(Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports)

NEW YORK — The Mets have traded outfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis to the Angels for cash considerations.

They had designated Nieuwenhuis for assignment last week. It gave them a window to trade him before he had to decide whether to accept a demotion to the minor leagues.

Nieuwenhuis had been the Mets' fourth outfielder for most of this season but struggled offensively in that role. He had just three hits in 38 at-bats before being moved.

It ends a nearly seven-year stretch with the organization for Nieuwenhuis. He was drafted in the third round by the Mets in 2008. He debuted in 2012 and volleyed between the majors and Triple-A thereafter.

Nieuwenhuis hit .230 with a .676 OPS over 226 games and 592 plate appearances during his four-year career with the Mets

The Mets have traded outfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis to the Angels for cash considerations. — New York Mets (@Mets) May 27, 2015

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Mike Vorkunov may be reached at mvorkunov@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Mike_Vorkunov. Find NJ.com Mets on Facebook.