MJ Melendez

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MJ Melendez is a professional baseball player recognized for his impressive rise from a top high school catcher to his Major League debut with the Kansas City Royals in 2022. Drafted in the alternate round of the 2017 MLB Draft, Melendez has displayed potential despite facing challenges in his early MLB career, including struggles in the 2025 season. His family background in sports, combined with his achievements, provides an intriguing narrative about his expedition and development in baseball.

Early Life

MJ Melendez attended Westminster Christian School in Palmetto Bay, Florida, where he emerged as a standout high school catcher. His impressive performance on the field earned him recognition as the top catcher in his class.

In 2016, he displayed his talent by participating in the Perfect Game All-American Classic, an event that highlights the skills of promising young athletes.

Although he committed to play collegiate baseball at Florida International University, where his father serves as head coach, Melendez ultimately pursued a professional career after being selected by the Kansas City Royals in the following round of the 2017 MLB Draft.

Family Life

MJ Melendez hails from a sports-focused family, with his father, Mervyl Melendez, serving as the head coach of the baseball team at Florida International University.

This close-knit family’s strong passion for baseball has greatly influenced MJ’s path, as he was guided by Mervyl’s extensive coaching experience throughout his development as a player.

The values of sports and education that were instilled in him by his father have played a key role in shaping his career.

MJ’s commitment to the sport and his family’s support highlight the vital impact of a nurturing environment in achieving success in professional athletics.

Career

MJ Melendez was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 2nd round of the 2017 MLB Draft and made his Major League debut on May 3, 2022.

Throughout his career, he has recorded a batting average of .216 and accumulated a total of 170 RBIs over 1452 at-bats.

However, the 2025 season proved challenging for Melendez, as he struggled with a .085 batting average and a .173 on-base percentage.

This performance led to him being optioned to the Omaha Storm Chasers on April 16, 2025, marking a notable moment in his career.

Net Worth

MJ Melendez’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million.

His MLB earnings include a total of approximately $4.13 million in salary, along with a signing bonus of $2.1 million.

The top five salary figures from his MLB career are as follows:

• $1.2 million in 2022
• $1.5 million in 2023
• $1.75 million in 2024
• $2.65 million in 2025
• His initial signing bonus of $2.1 million when drafted.

Furthermore, Melendez’s financial investments may further contribute to his overall wealth.