Having been claimed off the waiver wire by the Cincinnati Reds from the Chicago Cubs just three months ago, Team Italy slugger Robel Garcia was claimed off waivers again on October 26, 2020 by the New York Mets. As a member of the 60-man player pool during the abbreviated 2020 season, switch-hitter Robel Garcia made the taxi squad once but did not not play in any major-league games. He fast became a fan favorite after making his MLB debut in 2019 when he hit .208 with two doubles, three triples, five homers and 11 RBI in 31 games for the Chicago Cubs.
During his two seasons within the Cubs organization, Robel Garcia demonstrated his defensive versatility by playing every position but pitcher, catcher, and centerfielder. It would not be surprising to see him in the New York Mets outfield next year with Team Italy’s Brandon Nimmo and Italian American Michael Conforto. Perhaps this could be a sneak preview of what the Azzurri outfield could look like in the next World Baseball Classic? Forza #Italia!
by Roberto Angotti
