Arizona Fall League: Glendale Desert Dogs Prospect Report

Arizona Fall League to MLB Opening Day: Francisco Mejia (CLE)

Stats: .396 AVG, 10 R, 2 HR, 6 RBI, BB

Obviously, the Cleveland Indians’ 2017 season didn’t end as hoped — squandering a 2-0 series lead to the New York Yankees in the ALDS. However, that won’t keep the future times from rocking in The Rock and Roll Capital of the World.

With two of Cleveland’s top three prospects, according to MLB.com, finishing the regular season at Double-A Akron or higher, promising reinforcements are on the horizon for Terry Francona.

Possibly as soon as next season.

On September 1, top prospect Francisco Mejia made his Major League debut, flying out to right field versus Detroit. The 22-year old went 2-for-13 with a pair of singles in a brief ML cameo.

Next season could bring a prolonged stay for the catcher turned third baseman. Mejia is continuing his MiLB domination in October as he leads all AFL hitters with a .396 batting average. In fact, the Dominican Republic native has an 11-game hit streak and has not been held hitless in any appearance.

As the 5’10” third baseman continues to mature, his power will be illustrated more often. Mejia hit a career-high 14 home runs with Akron this season and has 2 home runs in 49 Arizona plate appearances.

Granted, a 2018 start with Triple-A Columbus is possible; though, considering the lack of production from Giovanny Urshela, it is not out of the realm of possibilities that Mejia gets an Opening Day nod at Safeco Field on March 29.