Who is Francisco Alvarez? Charting New York Mets prospect's meteoric rise through the ranks

One of the top prospects in the entire MLB, Francisco Alvarez could potentially make his season debut with the New York Mets this upcoming weekend. The Mets were likely to keep Alvarez in the minors for the first month of the season at a minimum. However, after Omar Narvaez hit the IL earlier this week, his road to the MLB became clear, as the New York Mets called up the future superstar.

"The Mets have officially added Francisco Álvarez to their roster for today’s home opener. He will wear #4. Welcome back to The Show, Francisco!" - SNY Mets

Ranked No. 1 on MLB's Top 100 prospect list, Mets fans have been waiting to lay their eyes on their next potential superstar. While an injury helped expedite Alvarez's road to the MLB, he has more than proved himself worthy of a call-up during his time in the minors.

So far this season with Triple-A Syracuse, Francisco Alvarez has two home runs in four games with an OPS of 1.056. Last season, in 112 games between Double-A and Triple-A, Alvarez batted .260 with 27 home runs and 78 RBIs, more than proving himself ready for a permanent role with the big club.

While he is likely to find himself promoted at some point this season, starting catcher Omar Narvaez hit the IL with a medium-to-high-grade strain of his left calf. Narvaez is likely to miss 8-10 weeks with his injury, giving Alvarez an extended audition with the Mets.

With only Tomas Nido the only catcher remaining on the roster, the Mets had no option but to bring up the super prospect. According to multiple reports, Francisco Alvarez may see more time as a designated hitter, with Nido handling the bulk of the catching duties.

"Also, nothing against Tomas Nido, who is a valuable backup and a very good defensive catcher. But he’s a career .217/.254/.319 hitter. The Mets calling Francisco Alvarez up and not playing him regularly because of Nido would be a fiasco" - Danny Abriano

A look at Francisco Alvarez's disappointing first stint in the MLB last season

The 21-year-old Alvarez debuted last September, attempting to provide the New York Mets with much-needed momentum as the team slumped as the regular season drew to an end. However, he was less than stellar in his first stint with the club.

He collected two hits and one home run in 12 regular-season at-bats, striking out four times. He did post an encouraging 123 wRC+ (league average is 100).