Víctor Mesa Jr made his MLB debut on May 25th of this year, the next day he got his first hit and RBI on the grand stage. Then on his birthday, September 8th the young outfielder celebrated in the best way possible, he slugged his first major league honerun.
It has been a long journey to the big leagues by the once heralded prospect who signed out of Cuba for a million dollars in 2018 with Miami along with his brother Víctor Víctor Mesa. The outfielder of the Mesas reached Triple-A with the fish before concluding his career.
In 11 games since being called up the young Cuban has knocked in five runs and slugged three extra base hits over his 22 at-bats. Expect Mesa to prepare very well this winter to make a run at a roster spot for the next year’s spring training.
How have injuries hurt you this season?
I think for a lot, especially since spring training. Obviously I thought I noticed that obviously I had a chance to make the team in the beginning of training camp but unfortunately another injury affected my chances. I think it’s time to look at focus right now on what I can do to help the team and try to stay healthy for the rest of this season.
You get your first hit in MLB and your first RBI on the same day. Then you hit a home run on your birthday. Tell us about those two days and how you felt?
You know, obviously happy, especially when you perform in the right way and help the team to a win. I think that the most important thing, that’s why we’re here. I’m trying to have good stuff on the field. That way the manager could put me in to play more often.
Your father was a great player and a major league talent. How did he feel to see you get called up to the major leagues?
He was so happy. I think it was a great moment for our family and obviously I think it was a moment to give my last name some pride, obviously put it where it supposed to be, because we’re a family of baseball players. I will also try to do my best to make my family and the other people that support me proud.
From your first call up, what adjustments have you made at the plate?
I think this time I came up calmer and knowing that I’m here for a reason. You know I’m trying to have good at-bats and not try to do too much. Obviously right now I have more experience and I know what I going to see. The more I play the more comfortable I will feel at the plate.
Could we, could we see you playing any winter ball this year?
Yeah it’s in the plans. But then I definitely going to play winter ball because I want to get more at bats and always try to continue this momentum. I want to more at-bats and then come in ready for the next spring.
Have you spoken to any winter league teams?
I already have a team in México. But as of right now I’m focusing on being here and what I can do here right now. Obviously we will focus on there when I get there, but the most important thing is what is happening in my career right now.