FORT MYERS, Fla. –– The spring training season didn't start off in a very promising manner for Mauro Gomez.
Gomez, who was signed in early February and invited to major league camp as a non-roster player, missed parts of spring training because of an issue with his visa. After making the trek to Florida on Feb. 24, he was reassigned to minor league camp.
The first baseman finally received his first taste of action against major league competition Wednesday, when he got the start against the Twins. Although he finished 1-for-3, he relished the opportunity after the wait.
"Experience, experience, experience," Gomez said of what he took from game. "A nice game against major leaguers and it's nice to get it under my belt. But I'm hoping they give me more chances to play, so I can show that I can play."
Last season at Gwinnett –– the Atlanta Braves' Triple-A affiliate –– Gomez feasted on pitching, clobbering 24 homers and 90 RBIs while hitting .304. It was impressive, considering it marked his first stint against Triple-A talent.
But Wednesday's start was his first extended appearance since winter ball and Gomez said he's still trying to develop a rhythm at the plate.
"I felt a little weird with my timing," Gomez said. "But with every pitch and at-bat, it'll keep getting better and better."
The 27-year-old will likely start the year in Pawtucket.
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