Maybe Yoenis Cespedes has something left in the tank after all.
It was easy to begin to question if that was the case. Cespedes had dramatically cooled off after a strong start in the Dominican Winter League, the strikeouts piling up as his performance fell off. He looked every bit the 37 year old outfielder who had not seen significant action in four years.
Yoenis Cespedes shows power is still there for one night
That was not the case on Tuesday. Cespedes had a two home run night for Aguilas Cabaenas, doubling his season total and giving him a share of the lead in the DWL.
This is the type of performance that Cespedes had been hoping for. Even if a return to the majors may be far-fetched at this point in his career, it is possible he could sign on with a team in Mexico or in Asia. If he can show that some of the thunder is still there in his bat, his hopes of getting that chance will only increase.
His performance also helps his chances in another area as well. Cespedes is set to join the Cuban National Team for the 2023 World Baseball Classic as he has been included on their initial 50 man roster. If he can shake off that rust in the DWL, he will only improve his chances of being part of the team when the tournament begins.
Cespedes even being on the diamond is a bit of a surprise. He had appeared in just eight games since the end of the 2018 campaign, fading away completely after he disappeared from the Mets. But maybe that time away was what he needed mentally and physically as he looks to continue his improbable comeback.
Yoenis Cespedes was able to turn the clock back for one night with a two homer game. Maybe he has something left in the tank after all.