Raul Mondesi Jr. Could Become First Player to Make His Major League Debut in World Series
By Kyle Koster
Raul Mondesi Jr., a 20-year-old middle infielder, is on the Kansas City Royals’ World Series roster. The switch-hitting middle infielder has never played above Double-A and could become the first player in history to make his Major League debut in the Fall Classic.
Mondesi, the son of former outfielder Raul Mondesi, hit .243 in 81 games this season with the Northwest Arkansas Nationals in the Texas League. He was successful on 19 of his 25 stolen base attempts. He’ll replace speedy outfielder Terrance Gore who has been used as a pinch runner but has not had a plate appearance this postseason.
Jumping from the Texas League to the World Series is the stuff of dreams. But Mondesi’s inclusion makes sense when you consider he gives manager Ned Yost more flexibility for the games in New York where double-switches become an option. The Royals are among baseball’s most aggressive teams and Mondesi’s ability to apply pressure to the defense should seamlessly transition to the big league game.
Ben Zobrist’s availability could also change in a moment’s notice.
5) Ben Zobrist's wife, Julianna, is 37 weeks pregnant. She started having contractions during Game 6. Both are glad there won't be a Game 7.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 24, 2015
World Series history is full of clutch performances from little-known players. Mondesi could etch his name alongside the likes of Pat Borders, Scott Brosius and Geof Blum. In fact, he need look no further than across the diamond to the Mets dugout, which will include repeat fall hero Juan Uribe, for inspiration.