MLB's Top Prospect Undergoes Surgery

His very brief tryout at the big league level with the New York Mets didn't go that well, and now we may have learned why. Top prospect Francisco Alvarez nearly had his season ended earlier in September by a bum ankle, according to Mets reporter Anthony DiComo. 

News: Francisco Álvarez underwent surgery today to address cartilage damage from the loose body in his right ankle that nearly ended his season in September. The Mets expect him to be ready for Spring Training.

— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) October 19, 2022

Alvarez on Tuesday had surgery was to address cartilage damage from the loose body in his right ankle, and the Mets expect him to be fully ready for Spring Training.

The 20-year-old catcher had 27 HR, 78 RBIs and an .885 OPS across Double-A and Triple-A this season, earning him a 5-game trial with the Mets at the end of the season. He only managed two hits in those 12 at-bats in Queens, but did launch his first major league home run. 

Francisco Álvarez gets his first hit and his first home run with one swing of the bat! pic.twitter.com/mAn9THu1Ko

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) October 5, 2022

MLB Pipeline raves about Alvarez, saying "even if he didn’t play a premium position at catcher, Álvarez would be one of the most exciting offensive prospects in baseball. His swing is whip-like from the right side and helps him barrel balls easily to all fields."

All will admit that his defense behind the plate still needs some work, but the Mets acknowledge that "he has been working diligently to become even an average defensive backstop, hoping his framing and blocking can at least come close to his bat."

Getting his ankle cleaned up now was a prudent move, as he could get a chance, with a big spring, to win a job with the team right at the outset of 2023. 

Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports