The Diamondbacks made two big acquisitions from Venezuela during the 2010 international signing period, signing outfielder Yorman Garcia for $200,000 and Mejias for $320,000. Mejias, a switch-hitting shortstop from Zulia who pitched and played shortstop in the Little League World Series in 2007, had one of the best swings in the Latin American class. He has projectable power from both sides of the plate, and a swing that allows the bat head to stay in the zone a long time. His lefthanded stroke is more advanced than his righthanded swing. He has above-average speed and was timed at 6.8 seconds in the 60-yard dash during workouts last summer. It's questionable whether Mejias will be able to stay at shortstop as he grows stronger, but he has the skills to play there now and the Diamondbacks will not move him off the position to start his career. His bat is projected to play at any position, and his average arm would allow him to handle third base or left field. Mejias will likely start his pro career in the Dominican Summer League, but could make it to the United States with the Diamondbacks' new affiliate in the Rookie-level Arizona League.
Download our app
Read the newest magazine issue right on your phone