The first step is given, perhaps the simplest, but here comes the good part. With quality, the list of Mexican players on the teams' rosters is seen, and although each one lives a particular situation, there is a bright outlook for 2017.
There are 24 Mexican players considered on the rosters published on MLB's official website (plus many others in the Minor Leagues), which allows for a large contingent to be present during the six opportunity-filled months to nourish the heart of MLB with Mexican blood.
Although the trend remains and pitchers continue to dominate the list, there has been an increase in the number of position players attending the training. Adrián González is the only one with a secure spot, but he is no longer alone, there are eight others by his side. In the pitchers, there are familiar and respected arms, and new faces that keep the tradition alive.
POSITION PLAYERS
Mexico has certainly had good gloves in Major League history, but in recent years there have been many ups and downs in finding players to perform in the infield, outfield, or behind the plate. But that part seems to be entering a new stage, a stage of renewal where it is shown that it is also possible to have a good number of Mexican players in a lineup. Besides the home run hitter Adrián González, starting first baseman for the Dodgers, there are eight Mexicans accompanying him. There are two catchers who have tried and sought the path to MLB but have not received the opportunity: Xorge Carrillo and Sebastián Valle. But there are also four infielders, three of them young blood. Alongside the experienced Efrén Navarro (who has already played in MLB) is Daniel Castro (a young player who has already reached the Majors), Christian Villanueva, and Luis Urías. And in an uncommon situation, two outfielders emerge, one with 25 years of age (Sebastián Elizalde) and another who is one of the Dodgers' top prospects: Álex Verdugo.
PITCHERS
Pitching continues to be Mexico's strong suit with 15 elements, and it comes with a good balance. There are established and high-quality starters, as well as various types of relievers: situational, long relievers, set-up, and closer. Many positive statistics will come out of this group. Although perhaps only Marco Estrada has the profile to open on Opening Day, assuming he would be the number 1 in the rotation, we must be attentive to the starts of Yovani Gallardo, Jaime García, and Miguel González (almost with a spot in the rotation), and perhaps we will see Luis Cessa, Julio Urías, and César Vargas in the same situation. Manuel Bañuelos hopes to receive another opportunity, while Giovanny Gallegos is in his early attempts to make the leap. Coming out of the bullpen, we can boast that we will have from the experienced Óliver Pérez as a situational relief with Washington, to Roberto Osuna closing with Toronto.