Not much was expected of Víctor Mesa Jr this season by teams MLB, this includes the Miami Marlins who designated the Cuban outfielder for assignment during last offseason. The team eventually traded Mesa to their cross-state rival, the Tampa Bay Rays. This would be the turning point in his career, eventually causing it to take off.
What teams were not aware of was how dedicated Mesa had become to his craft and how hard he has worked on every aspect of his game. The native of Villa Clara methodically has turned himself into a five-tool player and his put himself into one of Cuba’s future star on the grand stage.
On Wednesday Mesa’s key seventh inning homerun propelled the Rays to a three game sweep of the Yankees and gave in them a birth in the American League Championship Series. Over the last month the speedster hit .355 and was named the player of the week for September 14.
On the season Mesa hit .260 with 14 homeruns, 34 runs batted in, nine stolen bases and slashed .327/.498/.825 after being discarded by the fish. Expect the versatile Mesa to receive votes for Rookie of the Year and be a future cornerstone for Tampa Bay in the outfield.
You hit .355 this month and were named Player of the Week during the final week of the month. What adjustments did you make?
I think it’s the result of the work we’ve been putting in over these past few months. I’m grateful to God for keeping me healthy and making this possible. Now I just have to keep working because we’re in the most important part of the season, and hopefully I can have another month like that.
You made an important play in Game 1 with that throw to third base. Walk me through the play.
Obviously, I knew the runner was moving, and to me, it looked like a sure double. I just tried to get the ball back to the infield as quickly as possible, and Walls took care of the rest. I’m grateful to be able to do my part to help us win and keep giving my best.
Liam Hicks often hits ahead of you. How has his addition helped this lineup?
Liam is a tremendous hitter. We have complete confidence in him, and we know what he’s capable of. Sometimes I hit behind him, and sometimes Chandler does, but we trust what he can contribute both offensively and defensively.
You’ll be playing for Licey this year. When will you report to the Tigres?
My priority is to be here. My mind and my heart are here. Once we’re finished—hopefully with a positive result, God willing—I’ll join them over there.