Miami Marlins top ten prospects for 2020
By David Hill
10. Victor Victor Mesa
Minors (A+, AA): 503 plate appearances, .235/.274/.263, seven doubles, 18 steals, 22 walks, 64 strikeouts
When the Miami Marlins signed top international prospect Victor Victor Mesa to a $5.25 million signing bonus, the hope was that he could become the future face of the franchise, a player that the community could embrace with his Cuban heritage and exciting skills.
Instead, Mesa’s first season stateside was a disappointment. He displayed virtually zero power and a minimal ability to get on base. While Mesa did make consistent contact, he did not drive the ball whatsoever, making him no threat at the plate and rendering his excellent speed useless.
The 2019 campaign was, essentially, the worst case scenario as it came to Mesa. His flat swing, while geared towards making contact, is not designed to drive the ball. Likewise, his excellent ability to put the bat on the ball did not lead to many walks, although he did nothing with the contact he made.
Defensively, Mesa is major league ready right now. He has displayed excellent range and an ability to read the ball off the bat well, with his speed translating to the outfield. Mesa’s best tool currently may be his arm, which is one of the best amongst center fielders in the game. But as great as his defense is, Mesa will need to hit in order to reach the majors.
Victor Victor Mesa has a great deal of potential. But in order for him to become the impact player that the Miami Marlins are hoping for, some adjustments may be in order.