The New York Mets don’t have a top 10 farm system. However, there are several exciting young players that could make an impact down the road, especially in the low minors.
The most exciting name in the organizational ladder is, by far, Ronny Mauricio. The shortstop ranks number 1 in MLB Pipeline’s list of Mets prospects, and although he didn’t have a very enticing statistical profile in 2019, he has as much upside as any young player of his age group not named Wander Franco or Jasson Dominguez.
He received the “55” overall score by MLB Pipeline, which is very good. All of his tools project to be above-average, especially his hit tool and his power. He already has a 60 arm, and although he isn’t particularly fast, he projects as an everyday shortstop.
He was deemed advanced enough that the team promoted him to the Appalachian League at the age of 17.
The Mets’ future offensive weapon
Mauricio is significantly ahead of the developmental curve. He is 18 years old and already held his own in Class-A. Most of the players of his age are either on the Dominican Summer League or in Rookie ball.
The infielder, a member of the Mets’ 2017 international free agent class, had a .268/.307/.357 line with a .665 OPS. Again, not very good, but he is at least two or three years ahead of his peers. His body is still projectable and he should add more raw (and game) power as he ages.
Mauricio hit 20 doubles, 5 triples and 4 home runs in 470 plate appearances. He also stole six bases. He earned midseason All-Star honors in the South Atlantic League last season.
He is a switch hitter, although he is better batting lefty. Scouts love his swing and bat speed, and say that he will bat for average and power. Defensively, he has good reactions, soft hands and a plus arm.
He is 6-foot-3, and if his body fills out, he could also have enough bat for third base. The New York Mets have a keeper in Mauricio, and he has all the makings of a future star.