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After the Braves game against the Miami Marlins today they decided to option former International League ROY Ernesto Mejia down to Triple-A Gwinnett.
1B Ernesto Mejia has been optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett. Spring roster now at 29. #Braves
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) March 26, 2014
Despite putting up solid numbers in Grapefruit League action with a .314 batting average (16-of-51) with five doubles and two home runs, the 6-foot-5, 245-pound first baseman has often been considered too much of a defensive liability and not versatile enough to make the major league roster. It doesn't help either when you are behind Freddie Freeman who is not going to take very many off days in the regular season.
Be versatile. RT @JSnyder0306: @ajcbraves I know Braves value versatility....but what else can Mejia do to prove he deserves a bench spot
— David O'Brien (@ajcbraves) March 26, 2014
Mejia will remain one of the top power threats in the minors and will look to take the RBI crown for a third straight season with the Gwinnett Braves. There's still a chance that he could have a mid-to-late season call up, but he can't play any other position right now besides first base. These days you need to be a Ramiro Pena like ball player to earn a bench spot or a proven veteran hitter.
The 28-year old Venezuelan has a career .279 average in the minors and has taken an opposing pitcher yard 139 times while posting a .493 slugging percentage.