Lionel Messi receives Marlins Mesa jersey

Lionel Messi is no stranger to swapping jerseys with the opposition as one of the world's top soccer players. But the Argentine captain, who has won a record six Ballon d'Or Awards and plays for FC Barcelona, was seen posing for a photo with an unlikely kit: That of Marlins No. 10 prospect Victor Mesa Jr.

The 19-year-old Cuban is an outfielder for the Low-A Jupiter Hammerheads, better known for signing with the Marlins in 2018 alongside his older brother, Víctor Víctor Mesa, then the top international prospect.

So how did Messi wind up with a Minor Leaguer’s jersey? Mesa told MLB.com that he knew the superstar was in South Florida because of his Instagram posts. Mesa was able to find out through a friend where he was staying and waited outside with other fans, hoping for a photo. At one point, Messi’s nephew came out asking people to clear out. Mesa saw his opportunity and mentioned he was a ballplayer for the Marlins organization.

“I just brought a jersey,” said Mesa, who has never seen Messi play in person but watches his games on TV. “I wanted to give it to him. ‘If he wants to keep it, OK. If not, it's OK, too.’ The other day, his nephew sent me that picture. That was an incredible story. I'm very fortunate to get that.”

Mesa shared a picture of Messi holding a black alternate Marlins jersey with his name and number on it. He also revealed a Messi tattoo on the back of his left leg with the following caption:

"Si me conoces lo suficiente sabes cuanto puede significar esta foto para mí!! Mi ídolo de toda la vida con mi camisa ?????? gracias @leomessi ?? y eternamente agradecido a quien lo hicieron posible @aguusmessi y @jorge.sole Más que un sue?o cumplido ?

"If you know me well enough, you know how much this photo means to me!! My lifelong idol with my shirt. Thank you, @leomessi, and forever grateful to those who made this possible. @aguusmessi and @jorge.sole. More than a dream come true."

Mesa also posted on Twitter.