Dodgers News: Raul Mondesi Says Yasiel Puig Reminds Him Of Himself
The Los Angeles Dodgers once had a right fielder with an prodigious power, tons of energy and an exceptional arm. Today, the Dodgers have a right fielder with prodigious power, tons of energy and an exceptional arm.
The former is Raul Mondesi, who played with the Dodgers from 1993-1999, and the latter is Yasiel Puig, who is in his second season with the team. Yesterday, Mondesi was at Dodger Stadium to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and had some thoughts on Puig.
According to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times, Mondesi discussed the Cuban outfielder and his comparison:
When former Dodgers outfielder Raul Mondesi watches Yasiel Puig, he is reminded of a player he knew well: Himself.
But, Mondesi added, ‘He’s bigger than me. He’s like 6-4, huh?’
Mondesi was the 1994 National League Rookie of the Year, while Puig finished second last season. When asked more about Puig, Mondesi added that the outfielder is young and that mistakes should be expected. He believes that Puig will be a great player as long as the Dodgers let him develop slowly. Another thing the duo has in common is their reaction from the fans. Mondesi was a fan favorite back in the 1990s and Puig draws some of the largest cheers nowadays. The Dodgers certainly hope Puig can turn out like Mondesi, who ended his career with 271 career home runs, and was one of the most consistent hitters for his tenure in Los Angeles.
Since retiring from baseball after the 2005 season, Mondesi returned to his hometown of San Cristobal, Dominican Republic, and currently serves as the mayor. He mentioned that he has been approached by teams to join their staffs, but he cannot commit because of his duties as mayor. Mondesi has a son who is a top prospect in the Kansas City Royals organization.
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Size, physical ability, yes. The question seems to be whether Yasiel Puig has the intelligence to play major league baseball.
My former neighbor and dentist also treated Raul Modesi. He told me he was great guy.