The New York Mets selected 18-year-old infielder Boston Baro with their eighth round pick of the 2023 draft. Baro had a commitment to UCLA, but decided to sign with the Mets for a $700,000 bonus that was significantly above the $192,900 slot value.

Baro was ranked as the 98th prospect heading into the draft by Baseball America in part because of his smooth left-handed swing and his exceptional plate discipline. The 6’2” California native is a strong defender at shortstop with an above-average arm and smooth actions that could keep him at the position long-term even as he fills out his 170-pound frame.

The now 19-year-old impressed in his limited action in the Florida Complex League, slashing .316/.458/.421 with two doubles and two RBIs in seven games. In those seven games, Baro walked five times and struck out only once.

Baro showed off his defensive versatility by playing three games at third base, three games at second base, and one game at shortstop. The FCL roster was loaded with skilled players at the shortstop position, leading to all of them playing multiple spots.

MMN: What was the moment like, and who did you get to share it with when the Mets officially drafted you? And did you have any inclination that the Mets were a team that could draft you leading up to that point?

Boston: I got to share the moment with my mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and aunt. It was a very stressful day, but when I heard my name get called, it was the happiest moment of my life, and having my family there with me made it even better. I did a pre-draft workout with the Mets, so I thought they were a team that could possibly take me, but it was in the back of my mind.

MMN: What made you forego a commitment to UCLA to sign with the Mets, and how difficult of a decision was that for you and your family?

Boston:  It was always a dream to play professional baseball, and having the opportunity to start my career early was something I knew I was ready for, and overall, mentally and physically, I was ready for. The decision was pretty easy for my family and I to decide because they supported my decision no matter what I wanted to do. They left the decision overall up to me.

MMN:  What has the early transition been like going from playing High School baseball to pro ball and playing on a team in a playoff race? So far, what would you say is the biggest difference between the two levels of competition?

Boston: It’s been a lot of fun and a lot of hard work. Everyone around me has the same goals, and it’s nice to have everyone pushing each other each and every day we show up at the field to give our best. And being a part of the playoff run was super fun, and how passionate everyone is about winning. The biggest difference is everyone is good. Seeing 92+ every day with good off-speed is the biggest difference.

MMN: You played shortstop, second, and third base already in the pros. Is there a position you’re most comfortable with?

Boston: I’m comfortable at all the positions. With my summer team, the So Cal Giants, we rotated around the infield, so luckily for them, I’ve already had experience at all of them.

MMN: Can you tell me how you got the first name, Boston, a kid from California?

Boston: My dad’s side of the family is from Boston, and they are all huge Boston-everything fans. So when he had a boy, he wanted to name his son Boston, and I love the name.

MMN: You didn’t strike out until your final game with the FCL Mets. Is putting the ball in play something you pride yourself on and how do you hone a skill like plate discipline at such a young age?

Boston: I definitely take pride in my bat-to-ball skills and my approach when I am down in the count with 2 strikes and being picky early in the count with 0 or 1 strike. Working on picking up what pitch is coming early helps a lot with it. For example, knowing whether the slider has more sweep or depth, I know where I need to look for it to start.

MMN: Are there players you try to emulate your game after or any infielders you grew up idolizing?

Boston: There is no one specific that I try to emulate my game after, but I try to be the best player I can be, and I try to improve on each part of my game every day.

MMN: What was your trip to New York and Citi Field like? Did you get a chance to talk to any of the Mets players, and what was your favorite pizza at Joe’s?

Boston: My trip to New York was awesome. It was my first time visiting New York City, and I had a lot of fun. Walking around Times Square, looking at all the buildings and history there, and probably the best part, the food. I only got the cheese because I’m a plain guy. It’s the best pizza I’ve ever had, hands down. And Citi Field was amazing. It was just a little better than the food. I wasn’t able to talk to any of the guys, but watching BP, watching the game, and just seeing all the fans was awesome!

MMN: What are your plans for this offseason, and what are some things you want to focus on before you come to Spring Training in 2024?’

Boston: For the off-season, I’m going to spend half of September and all of October in Florida training with the coaches. My main focus for the offseason is to get faster, stronger, and put on more weight. And, of course, continue hitting and fielding every day.