1: SS Marcelo Mayer
What to look for: Signs of Greatness
It’s not often that a player is the number nine prospect in baseball the year after he was drafted, but it’s also not often that a player like Marcelo Mayer comes around. Mayer was MLB Pipeline’s top-rated prospect headed into last year’s draft, and the Red Sox couldn’t believe his luck when he fell to them with the number four pick.
Mayer didn’t disappoint in his short stint with the FCL Red Sox, posting a solid .275/.377/.440 slash line and displaying an advanced approach at the plate.
The expectations for Mayer are already off the charts, as he has already drawn comparisons to fellow sweet-swinging, left-handed shortstop Corey Seager. Mayer rates well above average in hitting, arm strength, and fielding, while scouts rave about his easy raw power.
The only relative hole in his game is his speed, but he makes up for it with great instincts and a quick first step. Simply put, Mayers has all the makings of a future superstar and his Baseball America ranking more than backs that up.
Entering his age 19 season, Mayer will likely start his season at Single-A Salem as one of the youngest players at his level. It is inevitable that Mayer will face some struggles during his minor league career, but that doesn’t mean Red Sox fans can’t look for signs of greatness. Mayer has the chance to be a generational player, and he should show us why in 2022.