Ronny Mauricio Shines In Loss Against Phillies
As this challenging season inches closer to its inevitable conclusion, there’s little cause for celebration in the world of the New York Mets. Having recently been eliminated from playoff contention and two months out from the whirlwind of the MLB trade deadline, the Mets find themselves in the final stretch of the season, seemingly using […]
The post Ronny Mauricio Shines In Loss Against Phillies first appeared on Metsmerized Online.
As this challenging season inches closer to its inevitable conclusion, there’s little cause for celebration in the world of the New York Mets. Having recently been eliminated from playoff contention and two months out from the whirlwind of the MLB trade deadline, the Mets find themselves in the final stretch of the season, seemingly using this time to assess potential additions to their 2024 roster.
John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Ronny Mauricio, who had a rollercoaster season in Triple-A Syracuse and endured persistent rumors about his future with the Mets, has transformed from trade bait into a serious contender for a spot in the upcoming season. His performance on Sunday in Philadelphia was a shining moment in an otherwise gloomy game as Mauricio’s two-run homer narrowed the deficit to three. However, there’s more to it than just the home run relative to the scoresheet itself.
According to Sarah Langs of MLB.com, Mauricio’s home run was no ordinary feat. He connected with a pitch that hovered just 1.23 feet above the ground, propelling it at an exit velocity of 112.9 miles per hour. This home run now has the distinction of something special, setting a new record for the highest exit velocity for a home run on a pitch delivered at that low of a height or even lower, based on Statcast data dating back to 2015. The previous record belonged to former Mets outfielder Yoenis Céspedes, who blasted a home run with a speed of 112.1 miles per hour off a pitch positioned a mere 1.21 feet above the ground in April 2018.
Ronny Mauricio’s HR came on a pitch 1.23 ft above the ground
he hit it 112.9 mph
that’s the hardest-hit HR on a pitch that low or lower under Statcast (2015)
prior mark: 112.1 mph by Yoenis Céspedes on a 1.21-ft pitch on 4/5/18 (that's by any team! just happens to be a Met) https://t.co/UtP3nEE7pT
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) September 24, 2023
Since his call-up on September 1, Mauricio has consistently demonstrated his ability to make solid contact with the ball, instantly adding a jolt of excitement to the Mets’ lineup. He made an unforgettable first impression by crushing his inaugural hit with a blistering speed of 117.3 miles per hour, sending it to the warning track in right field for a resounding double. This hit secured the distinction of being the hardest recorded hit by any Mets player the entire season. In a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Mauricio launched a towering 112.4 mph home run, marking his first homer in a 7-4 victory at Citi Field. The ball soared an estimated 440 feet, reaching the second deck in right field.
Mauricio, a versatile switch-hitter, has garnered praise from scouts for his considerable power potential, a quality he possesses from both sides of the plate. His athleticism is nothing short of remarkable, bolstered by a potent throwing arm, fueling optimism that he can carve out a lasting role in the middle infield. Mauricio’s remarkable physical prowess sets him apart from many minor league players, a fact he has consistently underscored during his tenure in the upper minors over the past few seasons.
What a catch by Ronny Mauricio! pic.twitter.com/8V6MLgKAtj
— SNY (@SNYtv) September 24, 2023
His track record boasts back-to-back 20-20 seasons, commencing in Double-A Binghamton last year before being called up to Triple-A Syracuse this season. In the previous season, he showcased his talents with 26 home runs and 20 stolen bases. His performance in 115 games with Syracuse this year has seen him launch 23 homers while successfully swiping bases on 24 out of 31 attempts, further solidifying his well-rounded abilities and prowess in the power department.
In his 77 at-bats for the New York Mets, Mauricio has amassed 20 hits, including two home runs and nine RBIs. Additionally, he has pilfered six bases, maintaining a batting average of .260, an on-base percentage of .305, and an impressive OPS of .683. Although he hasn’t settled into a fixed position, Mauricio’s impact with the bat has been undeniable, not only providing a spark for the team but also compelling the Mets to seriously consider him for a roster spot in the upcoming season.
The post Ronny Mauricio Shines In Loss Against Phillies first appeared on Metsmerized Online.