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Timber Rattlers Young Catcher Has Hopeful Future

Posted at 9:10 PM, May 21, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-21 23:46:39-04

The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers have a handful of young prospects to keep an eye on this season, including rookie catcher Mario Feliciano. 

The 18-year-old was the 75th pick in the 2016 MLB draft. He's batting .295 with 15 runs and 21 RBI as of May 21. 

Like any teenager, Mario enjoys the occasional trash talk. 

"He says he likes playing against the enemy's fans," Feliciano said through interpreting catcher Fidel Pena. "He likes to be yelled at by other team's fans."

Feliciano grew up in Puerto Rico where his grandfather introduced him to baseball when he was four years old. Wisconsin and its weather has been a transition for Mario, but the demanding schedule of professional baseball has been his biggest challenge.

"Every day you have to go out there like it's a new day, a new opportunity to get better and do well," Feliciano said.

While his defense is still a work in progress, many scouts believe his bat will help Mario find a place on an MLB roster one day. 

"I think you should remember his name," Timber Rattlers manager Matt Erickson said. "He's going to be a good one."