The New York Mets rookie shortstop, Ronny Mauricio, set the bar high for the long-drive category with a 450-foot home run in the eighth inning of the Mets’ 6-3 exhibition victory over the Nationals.
The ball landed on the berm behind the right-field fence and was estimated to have travelled the distance.
Mauricio hit a 507-foot homer last August for Double-A Binghamton at Somerset, but Sunday’s hit was still an impressive feat.
Mauricio attributed his success to his hard work and effort, which he has been putting in every day.
He expressed satisfaction in seeing his efforts translate into positive results on the field.
The Dominican Republic native felt more confident this year, stating that he felt like he belonged more in the team following his MVP performance in the Dominican Winter League.
Although Francisco Lindor is the Mets’ long-term shortstop, they intend to keep Mauricio at the position in the minors to maximize his trade value.
Mauricio disclosed that he is most comfortable playing third base as an alternative.
According to Mets Manager Buck Showalter, Mauricio has evolved as a prospect in many ways, which is a positive sign for the team.
Showalter confirmed that Darin Ruf is close to playing in an exhibition game after receiving a cortisone shot in his right wrist upon arriving at spring training.
Brandon Nimmo, however, will not debut in the Grapefruit League until next week as part of his strength and conditioning plan.
On the other hand, Pete Alonso will start for the Mets in their next game against the Cardinals.
Alonso was the only Mets position player in the World Baseball Classic who did not play on Sunday.
»Ronny Mauricio sets the bar high for long-drive category«
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