Francisco Mejia had another solid season and could be the future behind the dish if his growth continues

Francisco Mejia Was signed at the ripe old age of 17 on July 2, 2012 as one of the Tribe's international free agents with a bonus of $350k out of the Dominican Republic. Rather than playing on the DSL Rookie League team, Mejia was sent directly to Arizona League for his debut in 2013.

He slashed a 305/348/524 (and a 139 wRC+) and caught 11 of 48 baserunners trying to steal. While the percentage was bit on the low side, most scouts loved his rocket arm. But he played a very limited 30 games in the desert.

The Indians front office saw plenty enough though to promote him to Mahoning Valley (A-) for the 2014 season. As an 18 year old, playing a level above his age, Mejia hit a solid 282/339/407 (119 wRC+). Here he upped his caught stealing percentage by nabbing 19 out of 59 would be stealers.

Sickels liked him enough to rank him #4 for this year, grading him a solid B prospect. Baseball Prospectus loved him enough to rank him #84 overall and five spots ahead of Clint Frazier. Baseball America had him in Top 200 though.

Continuing his ladder, one rung at a time, this year Mejia spent the whole season at Lake County. He finally played close to a full season, and at age 19 slashed 243/324/345 (99 wRC+) and jumped his power up to 9 homers (from 2 the year before). And this year, just under 100 runners tried to take a base, and again his rocjet arm was on display. He threw out 32 of 93 guys.

As of right now, the MLB Pipeline has him at #11, down form #7 in the preseason, but that has a lot to with some of the newer draft picks and trade acquisitions shining. While his 2015 wasn't as fantastic as hoped, that was because he really struggled in the first half of the year. In June/July, his numbers looked much, much better, 292/360/354.

Mejia might not crack any of the Top 100 lists like he did this year, but he will not be too far off that number. He should start the year in Lynchburg and I don't foresee a quick promotion with all the depth there is at this position in the organization.