Experience:

Rafael played at Notre Dame Catholic High School (Puerto Rico) where he was named Captain as a junior and senior (2001-02).  As a senior, he led the team in hitting, RBIs and homeruns and was named MVP of the All-Star game.

Rafael was drafted in the 19^th round (2002) by the Detroit Tigers as a catcher.  He played as a catcher and an infielder in the Gulf Coast League and for the Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico) during Winter Ball that off-season.  He also played in the New York Penn League (2004-05).  Mendez won a championship while playing for the West Michigan Whitecaps in the Mid-West League (2006).  Rafael played his 2007 season in the Florida State League.

While playing in the Detroit Tigers organization Rafael won a Gold Glove in 2003 and was named first baseman of the year in 2004.