Entering 2023, the extent of Francisco Alvarez’s impact on the Mets at the big league level opened many possibilities.
Despite ups and downs to start the year, Alvarez appeared to continuously win over teammates and coaches with his work ethic and preparation to make strides at the big league level.
“There’s a real sincerity there that people feed off of,” Buck Showalter said before Saturday’s game in Colorado. “I walk by some room and he’s back there studying. He enjoys it. He enjoys studying. He’s fun to be around. I think they see the effort he gives. He cares.”
After an early mistake sliding off of third base on a potential triple, the rookie catcher came up with a clutch swing in the sixth inning on a three-run home run to tie the game at six in a game where the Mets originally trailed the Rockies 6-0.
His manager applauded the homer as well as his defense in a key performance in Alvarez’s development.
“I’m proud of how our team fought back offensively,” Showalter said. “Francisco had a great game defensively. It would be hard to find something negative about his game tonight.”
Justin Verlander echoed the praise for the young backstop after his start in which he battled through five innings.
“I can’t say enough great things about him,” Verlander said. “He cares, which shows big time in the clubhouse and behind the plate. That goes miles for pitchers. We all know the bat is going to be there. The improvements he has made already are a great sign for a future major leaguer.”
As the bat rolls around following Alvarez’s seventh home run of the season, coaches and teammates continue to express their belief and support in one of the organization’s most important prospects.