Sunday in Syracuse

Youth was served on Sunday as I was on hand to watch the Syracuse Mets finish their series against the Rays AAA  affiliate, the Durham Bulls.  While Crash Davis wasn't on hand, and Mark Vientos had the day off, I saw plenty of other young talent, such as the Mets Ronny Mauricio.  Now playing 2nd base, this tall power-hitter had a 1-for-5 afternoon including an RBI single, and is hitting around .350 in the early going.  

(Below) Danny Mendick, whose White Sox career was derailed by a serious knee injury, is trying to work his way back to the majors as a Met.  He followed Mauricio's run-producing single in the 8th with one of his own.

What the Rays lack in payroll size or stadium charm, they more than make up in young talent.  Say hello to shortstop Osleivis Basabe.  While his path (like the Mets' Mauricio) seems blocked by an established star, in his case Wander Franco, he's likely to reach the majors before long.  He came into Sunday's game at .351 with an .882 OPS.  This swing produced a lead off double -- and moments later, teammate Jose Siri (below) on a rehab assignment from Tampa, doubled him home.
Outfielder/DH DJ Stewart was dropped by the Orioles over the winter and signed with the Mets.  He pulled Syracuse closer when he homered in the bottom of the 1st.

Stewart's homer was the only real blemish against Durham starter Evan McKendry who worked into the 6th inning, giving up just that one run.
But we're not done with Tampa Bay's Parade of Prospects:
Infielder Curtis Mead seemed to play in every televised game against the Yankees and Phillies during spring training.  The 22 year old Australian didn't just catch my eye.  With the recent recall of pitcher Taj Bradley, he's now the Rays' number-one prospect. 
(Below) Kyle Manazardo could be the Rays' next homegrown 1st baseman.  The lefty swinger popped a pair of home runs Saturday night for Durham.
April 23rd is still early spring in Central New York.  After a sunny start, the day clouded over and the temperature never got to the speed limit.  Just keep this image in mind, as May is soon to approach... with real summer weather arriving in June.

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