Mets rookie Francisco Alvarez and the clutch gene
![Jul 6, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) runs the bases after](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_3478,h_1956,x_0,y_655/c_fill,w_752,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/3/01h4qq7976bg9h5yp4g6.jpg)
The New York Mets rookie catcher Francisco Alvarez has been a source of vitality to a team that has needed an energy boost at different times this season. On this occasion, Alvarez tests his clutch again by hitting a home run in a 3-2 count with two outs, which managed to tie the game last Wednesday, July 5, against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Alvarez's power has been unquestionable, breaking the record for most home runs in a season for a rookie catcher in the Mets franchise. This timely power has happened on more than one occasion this season.
Mets rookie Francisco Alvarez has been one of the most clutch players this season
During his stay on the big team, Alvarez has shown great progress in offensive and defensive terms. His framing ability and power have been some of the best news to happen to the Mets this season.
But the achievements of this young baseball promise do not end there. According to the incredible Sarah Langs, Francisco Alvarez has five home runs this year that have served to tie a game or go-ahead. This mark places him as the player with the most home runs in situations of this type when the game is in the 6th inning or later this season.
Francisco Alvarez now has 5 game-tying or go-ahead home runs in the 6th inning or later this season
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) July 6, 2023
THAT’S THE MOST IN MLB
HE IS A 21-YEAR-OLD ROOKIE CATCHER!! https://t.co/VY0FqXtb07
Alvarez's maturity and ability to deal with these situations in the game are unique for an inexperienced youngster of only 21 years of age. For a long time, many baseball players have been good ballplayers but have struggled to be timely and produce in the clutch. Alvarez has it in his blood.
Buck Showalter, after this incredible home run, argued that Alvarez is a hitter who likes to expose himself to this type of situation. It's impressive how such a young player can adapt to moments of pressure like this, especially in an at-bat as complicated as the one he experienced against Andrew Chafin.
The Mets have a star on their hands with the ability, potential, and attitude to be a productive, high-impact player in the game and organization. Without a doubt, Francisco Alvarez is special, and his energy and personality inject what this team needs to come back in the season.
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