Career Timeline of MJ Melendez: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of MJ Melendez, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Mervyl Samuel "MJ" Melendez Jr. is a professional baseball player, currently a left fielder and catcher in the New York Mets organization. He previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Kansas City Royals, making his debut in 2022. He is an American athlete known for his roles in both the outfield and as a catcher.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2016: Member of United States National Team

In 2016, Melendez was a member of the United States national team.

2017: Drafted by Kansas City Royals

In 2017, the Kansas City Royals selected Melendez in the second round, 52nd overall, of the Major League Baseball draft, and he signed with Kansas City for $2.1 million.

2018: Played with the Lexington Legends

In 2018, Melendez played with the Lexington Legends of the Single-A South Atlantic League, earning All-Star honors.

2019: Played with the Wilmington Blue Rocks

In 2019, Melendez played with the Wilmington Blue Rocks of the High-A Carolina League and was named an All-Star.

November 19, 2021: Added to Royals 40-Man Roster

On November 19, 2021, Melendez was added to the Kansas City Royals' 40-man roster, protecting him from the Rule 5 draft.

2021: Home Run Award

In 2021, Melendez was assigned to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, earned Double-A Central Player of the Month honors for July, was promoted to the Omaha Storm Chasers, and his total of 41 home runs for the season led the minor leagues, resulting in him becoming the first catcher to win the Joe Bauman Home Run Award.

May 2, 2022: Called up to the majors

On May 2, 2022, Melendez was a designated hitter for Omaha. He was called up to the majors that day.

2022: Returned to Omaha

In 2022, Melendez returned to Omaha to begin the season.

2022: MLB Debut

In 2022, Mervyl Samuel Melendez Jr. made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut for the Kansas City Royals.

2023: Played for the Royals

During the 2023 season, Melendez made 148 appearances for the Royals, achieving a slash line of .235/.316/.398 with 16 home runs, 56 RBI, and six stolen bases.

2023: Played in World Baseball Classic

In 2023, Melendez played for the Puerto Rico national baseball team at the World Baseball Classic.

2024: Played for Kansas City

In 2024, Melendez played in 135 contests for Kansas City, hitting .206/.273/.400 with 17 home runs and 44 RBI.

November 21, 2025: Non-Tendered by the Royals

On November 21, 2025, Melendez was non-tendered by the Royals and became a free agent.

February 12, 2026: Signed with the New York Mets

On February 12, 2026, Melendez signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the New York Mets and was optioned to the Triple-A Syracuse Mets to begin the regular season.