Victor Mesa Jr. excited for new year ahead of him

[Kevin Barral]

After a 2023 season that saw Victor Mesa Jr. improve in several aspects of his game, the Marlins outfielder looks to learn as much as he can from the experienced group of veterans here in big league camp.

JUPITER, FL—On Thursday, pitchers and catchers all fully reported to Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium (with a few exceptions). Several position players were also working out with the team ahead of schedule including Fish On First top outfield prospect Victor Mesa Jr. who was recently added to the 40-man roster after a successful season at the AA level. Fish On First had the opportunity to speak to Mesa about his expectations going into Spring Training.

"Just getting ready for this opportunity," said Mesa. "This is going to be my fifth or sixth year here. I am grateful for this opportunity with the team. I am excited at the same time. I wanna work, I wanna feel like home and I wanna fit in here."

Mesa has steadily risen through the Marlins farm system since signing as an international free agent in 2018. Last season, Mesa slashed .242/.308/.412/.720 with 18 home runs, 76 RBIs and a 91 wRC+. Mesa Jr. got off to a strong start with the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, but slowed down after the All-Star break. At 22 years old, "The Chosen One" looks to start at AAA in 2024 if he has a strong spring.

"Pretty nice," said Mesa describing his 2023 season in Pensacola. "Pretty good crowd there, pretty good season. We just missed out on the last game and lost the finals, but pretty good. I felt pretty comfortable, especially in Florida where there's much better weather all the time, but pretty good."

This offseason, in advance of the Rule 5 Draft, the Marlins had to decide who to protect in the major league portion of the draft. Along with RHP Anthony Maldonado, Mesa was selected to the 40-man roster, showing that the organization is high on the Cuban outfielder.

"It was great news," said Mesa. "I am not going to say it gives me confidence because, on the 40-man or not on the 40-man, I am going to go out on the field and give my 100%. I am thankful that the organization considered me as a good option, but I am ready for this opportunity."

Other outfielders in Marlins big league camp include Jazz Chisholm Jr., Avisaíl García, Nick Gordon, Jesús Sánchez and Bryan De La Cruz. The 22-year-old Mesa is excited to learn from all of them.

"Jazz and Avi, I know all of them already, but just excited to learn from everyone. I am here to learn since I am practically new with this, but I want to learn from everyone. You need to learn a little bit every day to try to be better every day, so you gotta do what you gotta do."

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