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, V¨ªctor V¨ªctor 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 m¨ª!! Mi ¨ªdolo de toda la vida con mi camisa ?????? gracias @leomessi ?? y eternamente agradecido a quien lo hicieron posible @aguusmessi y @jorge.sole M¨¢s 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.