Juan Lagares is an unstoppable force as he continues to wield a sizzling hot bat for Las Aguilas in the Dominican Winter League.

Last night, Lagares had two more hits including a home run, two runs scored and two more RBIs. He has lifted his batting average to .384 with a .407 on-base, .477 slugging and a .884 OPS in 86 at-bats.

During an appearance with Mike Francesa on WFAN a week ago, Mets GM Sandy Alderson raved about Lagares who he assured would be the Mets center fielder next season.

“Juan is trying to adapt. It’s very important to look at things below the surface. A lot can be predicted about a hitter based on when he hits in the count, early in the count or late in the count. You probably remember from last year, he was behind in the count all the time. He’s trying to make adjustments, mentally. It’s not about drawing walks, it’s about getting into hitter’s counts.” “Another thing is that Lagares has a knack for making contact, even behind in the count. There’s not a lot of power there right now, but he definitely made an improvement as the season went on.”

Lagares has had at least a hit in 18 of his 21 games played and has had multiple hits in 12 of those contests. Overall, he’s racked up 33 hits, five doubles, 12 runs scored, 13 RBI and four stolen bases while drawing three walks and striking out only 11 times or in less than 12% of his plate appearances.

Thoughts from David C.

I am just very happy to see Lagares doing so well. If he hits any where near what he is doing now in winter ball, should be a good summer for him. Next season can’t come fast enough.