Ronny Mauricio, SS, Tigres Del Licey (D.R.)
NYM No. 6

The star of the winter league campaign thus far—at least from a prospect standpoint—has far and away been Mauricio, the switch-hitting Mets shortstop. After a fast start for Licey last winter that quickly dissipated, Mauricio has kept up the consistency this year with a .317/.356/.492 line in 30 games. That slugging percentage, as well as his .848 OPS and 25 RBIs, leads the LIDOM. Mauricio’s electrifying style of play has also helped the Tigres to a league-best 21-9 record.

Professional baseball in North America is over for the time being. You may not miss it yet (there were 2,430 regular season Major League games this year, plus the postseason, the minors, and college baseball — it’s okay if you need a little break), but there will be a point in the coming months when you really, really do. It’ll be cold outside; it’ll be dark; all your shoes will be covered in salt stains; and walking down the street to get a sandwich will make you feel like Ernest ####### Shackleton. At that point, almost nothing will make you feel better than firing up some joyous, steamy, high-quality winter league baseball.

Most US baseball fans know almost nothing about these leagues. That’s a real shame because, not only is the play on the field often outstanding, but the culture of these leagues is significantly looser and more fun than baseball is allowed to be in the states (Brian McCann, you are not welcome here). So if you’re interested in catching some baseball this winter but don’t know where to start, read on.