Monday’s spring training game featured more at-bats for some of the Mets' young prospects. Ronny Mauricio, the reigning Dominican Winter League MVP continued his hot start at the plate as he homered in his second straight game in New York’s 12-7 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.
Following the game, Buck Showalter spoke about Mauricio’s development in camp.
“You can tell he hasn’t had much down time,” Showalter said. “It doesn’t surprise anybody that he is swinging the bat well.”
Despite the offensive progress, New York’s skipper prioritized the defensive strides of Mauricio.
“I know you want to talk about offense and hitting the ball over the fence,” Showalter said. “It’s about defense with young players for me. He did well over there. He’s a better defender now than he was last year when he was here. His work habits, the pace to his game. There is a certain fluidity that he is gaining. He’s got a chance to be a good one.”
Mauricio hit .259 with 26 home runs last season with Double-A Binghamton.