Throughout the course of spring training, a handful of former Mets continue to make their way to Port St. Lucie as guest instructors and mentors to current players. Among them is former infielder Edgardo Alfonzo, who spoke about the growth of young prospects Ronny Mauricio and Brett Baty.
Following his playing career, Alfonzo returned to the Mets organization as a minor league manager with the Brooklyn Cyclones, where he got to develop a number of prospects.
Beginning with Mauricio, Alfonzo recognized the impact of his strength as displayed by his hot start to the spring with three home runs.
“We were talking about how strong he looks and how mature he gets playing baseball,” Alfonzo said. “Playing in the Dominican League helped him a lot. I always tell guys when you have a chance to play winter ball, I think it’s going to be a great experience. You get to know your body. Mauricio has been doing that. He’s strong right now.”
Alfonzo had similar praise for the physical work Baty put in to get himself in major league shape.
“When I first saw him in Brooklyn, I liked his approach at the plate,” Alfonzo said. “He seems like a major league guy. He worked out in baseball shape. He looks good. He’s improved a lot. I’m happy for him.”
Both Mauricio and Baty continue to get consistent at-bats this spring as impact prospects to follow ahead of the 2023 season.
