JUST IN: Seattle Mariners received significant unexpected stunning news on top prospect Lazaro Montes

PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) – Lazaro Montes reflects on his development and mistakes by writing in a new journal every year. Each entry brings him closer to his goal of reaching the majors.

Montes, a member of Seattle’s deep farm system, is showcasing his progress in big league camp at the start of spring training. While he’s likely to return to the minor league group, this is an opportunity for him to work with Julio Rodríguez and other Mariners.

“He loves the game and enjoys being around it,” said Seattle manager Dan Wilson on Sunday. “That attitude is contagious. His energy is contagious, and you just enjoy being around him.”

Montes signed with Seattle in January 2022 as an international amateur free agent, receiving a $2.5 million bonus. He began journaling after joining the organization.

“I saw some major leaguers doing it, and during meetings, it was something they suggested we try,” Montes explained through a translator. “I gave it a shot, and it worked for me.”

Considered one of the Mariners’ top prospects, Montes hit .288 with 21 homers and 105 RBIs across two minor league levels last year, though he also struck out 128 times in 116 games.

The Cuban outfielder moved up from Class A Modesto to High-A Everett in June. In July, he struggled, hitting just .127 (9-for-71) for the AquaSox, but had a strong August, batting .411 with seven homers and 21 RBIs.

“I learned to have confidence in myself,” Montes said. “At first, I came in thinking I had to prove myself and do more. But when I did that, I struggled. So, I learned to trust myself.”

Montes was in Miami when the Mariners called him to join major league camp for spring training. He hopes to absorb as much as he can while with the big league team, especially regarding the different routines players use for preparation.

He has bonded with Rodríguez over their shared interests in anime and video games and has formed a special connection with fellow Cuban outfielder Randy Arozarena.

“As Cubans, we carry our competitiveness with us,” Montes said. “Watching Arozarena bring that to the major leagues is something I admire because it’s special to bring our culture into this league.”