The Mets selected pitcher Pedro Beato and infielder Brad Emaus in the Major League portion of the Rule 5 Draft today.

A former first-round pick, Beato apparently throws hard, though he hasn’t struck out a whole lot of guys in the Minors. He pitched as a starter in the Orioles’ system without much success from 2006 to 2009, but flourished after a move to the Double-A bullpen in 2010. In 59 2/3 innings over 43 appearances, Beato enjoyed career bests in K:BB, WHIP and ERA. He should compete for a role in the Mets’ bullpen in Spring Training.

Beato was born on Oct. 27, 1986 — the same day as Jon Niese, and the last time the Mets won the World Series.

Emaus seems the more intriguing pickup. As Sam Page pointed out, Emaus is a favorite of Baseball Prospectus’ prospects expert Kevin Goldstein, who wrote that he “just plays the game right” after his 2008 campaign in High-A ball. Emaus took a step backwards in 2009, but returned to form with a strong .874 OPS across Double- and Triple-A in 2010. It should be noted that his Triple-A numbers were probably a bit inflated by the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, but his high walk rate and ability to make contact bode well for his future.

Emaus will be 25 on Opening Day. Goldstein said his ceiling was as a solid everyday second baseman, and he should have the opportunity to compete for that role come Spring Training. But as Toby Hyde pointed out, he has no experience playing shortstop and played more third base than second in 2010.

For more on both, check out Page at Amazin’ Avenue, and Toby and Michael Diaz at MetsMinorLeagueBlog.com.