June 21, 2021
Prospect Mack Mueller has been a valuable piece of the low-A Dunedin Blue Jays roster this season. Mueller, who has the ability to play either first base or right field says he enjoys both positions.
“I don’t mind either position,” said Mueller. “I like first base a little more, though. I played first base for a full year in junior college, but I’m comfortable in right field, too.”
Logging 211 innings in right with a .930 fielding percentage, and another 80 1/3 innings at first with a .943 fielding percentage; has been a nice start to Mueller’s pro career.
Even though, Mueller plays more in the outfield, he’s putting in extra work at first base – especially when it comes to fielding ground balls.
“I feel my footwork at first is good, but I want to get better at fielding ground balls,” explained Mueller. “I actually do better with balls that are hit hard towards first than a little dribbler. I’ll admit that my hands aren’t always the best, but I’m working on it, as I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist.”
Another area Mueller is working hard is at the plate.
Focused on keeping his plate approach simple and aggressive has helped Mueller get big hits recently.
“I’ve simplified everything,” stated Mueller. “I figured coming into pro ball, I’d have to sit back more on borderline pitches, but that wasn’t working for me. I’m staying aggressive now and looking for my pitch every at-bat.”
Currently slashing .190/.282/.317 with an OPS of .599 after 126 at-bats; is an area that Mueller will look to improve on for the remainder of the season.
Be sure to follow Mack Mueller as he continues to work hard at the plate and in the field for years to come.