Top MLB International Prospects For 2023

Okay, baseball fans, let’s dive into the exciting world of international prospects! The 2023 MLB international signing period is a treasure trove of young talent, and we're here to break down the top players who could be making waves in the major leagues in the coming years. These young athletes come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to the game we all love. Get ready to meet the future stars of baseball!

Understanding the International Signing Period

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly cover what the international signing period is all about. Essentially, it's the period when MLB teams can sign amateur players who are not from the United States, Canada, or Puerto Rico. This usually opens on January 15th and continues through December 15th. Teams are given a set amount of money to spend on these players, creating a competitive market for the best young talent around the globe. Scouting these international prospects is an extensive process, with teams sending scouts to various countries to evaluate players' skills, potential, and overall fit within their organization. The international signing period is a crucial element of MLB's talent pipeline, as it allows teams to tap into a global pool of potential stars and build for the future. Many of today's MLB stars, such as Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., all began their careers as international signees. The success of these players highlights the importance of the international market in shaping the landscape of Major League Baseball.

Criteria for Selection

So, how do we determine who makes the list of top international prospects? Several factors come into play. First and foremost, scouting reports are crucial. We rely on evaluations from reputable sources who have seen these players in action. These reports assess a player's hitting ability, power, speed, fielding, and arm strength. Then, potential for future development is also key. These players are young, and their skills will continue to evolve as they mature and receive professional coaching. We look for players with high ceilings, meaning they have the potential to become impact players at the MLB level. Moreover, age and maturity are considered. While raw talent is important, players who demonstrate a high level of maturity and understanding of the game often have a better chance of succeeding in the long run. Finally, overall projectability is evaluated. This involves assessing how well a player's skills and physical attributes will translate to the major league level. It's not just about how good they are now; it's about how good they can be in the future.

Top International Prospects

Alright, let's get to the main event! Here are some of the top international prospects who are expected to make a splash in the coming years:

1. Leo De Vries (SS, Dominican Republic)

De Vries is an incredibly talented shortstop from the Dominican Republic. He's known for his exceptional hitting ability, smooth fielding, and strong arm. Scouts rave about his potential to be a star at the major league level. His bat is what stands out the most, showing advanced feel for hitting with impressive bat speed. In the field, De Vries has soft hands and good footwork, allowing him to make plays with ease. His arm strength is also a plus, giving him the ability to make strong and accurate throws from anywhere on the left side of the infield. De Vries has the tools and the baseball IQ to develop into a top-tier player. Off the field, De Vries is known to be a hard worker and a quick learner, further enhancing his potential. He's committed to improving his game and is eager to absorb knowledge from coaches and teammates. As he continues to develop, De Vries has the potential to become a cornerstone player for any team that signs him.

2. Joendry Vargas (SS, Dominican Republic)

Vargas is another highly touted shortstop from the Dominican Republic. He boasts a rare combination of size, athleticism, and raw power. Many scouts believe he has the highest ceiling of any international prospect in this class. Vargas stands out for his exceptional athleticism and raw power, which he combines with a natural feel for the game. Defensively, Vargas has the range and arm strength to stick at shortstop, although some scouts believe he could eventually move to third base as he continues to grow. His offensive potential is what excites scouts the most, as he possesses the ability to hit for both average and power. Overall, Vargas is a high-risk, high-reward prospect who has the potential to become a star at the major league level. Vargas is constantly working on his craft, dedicating hours to honing his skills both on and off the field. With the right coaching and development, Vargas has the potential to exceed expectations and become one of the game's brightest stars. His dedication and drive set him apart and make him a player to watch in the coming years.

3. Fernando Cruz (OF, Dominican Republic)

Cruz is an outfielder with a knack for hitting and plus speed. He projects as a potential top-of-the-order hitter with the ability to steal bases and play solid defense in center field. Cruz has a smooth, compact swing that generates good bat speed, and he has shown the ability to hit to all fields. He is an above-average runner with the potential to steal a lot of bases, and he also has the range and instincts to be a solid defender in center field. Scouts are impressed with his overall athleticism and his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Cruz is a dynamic player with a high ceiling, and he has the potential to become a valuable asset to any team. Off the field, Cruz is described as a humble and hardworking individual who is committed to improving his game. He is eager to learn from his coaches and teammates, and he is always looking for ways to get better. With his talent, work ethic, and attitude, Cruz has all the ingredients to become a successful major league player.

4. Paulino Santana (SS, Dominican Republic)

Santana is a switch-hitting shortstop with excellent defensive skills. He's known for his smooth hands, quick feet, and strong arm. Some scouts compare him to a young Ozzie Smith due to his defensive prowess. Santana's defensive abilities are what set him apart from other prospects in this class. He has exceptional range, soft hands, and a strong arm, allowing him to make plays that most shortstops can only dream of. Offensively, Santana is still developing, but he shows promise from both sides of the plate. He has a good feel for hitting and is constantly working to improve his power. Overall, Santana is a defensive wizard with the potential to become an above-average hitter, making him a valuable prospect for any team. Santana's dedication to his craft is evident in his tireless work ethic. He spends countless hours honing his defensive skills and refining his approach at the plate. With continued development, Santana has the potential to become one of the best defensive shortstops in the game.

5. Ariel Castro (SS, Dominican Republic)

Castro is a shortstop with a great feel for the game, both offensively and defensively. His baseball IQ is off the charts, and he makes smart plays on both sides of the ball. Castro is a fundamentally sound player with excellent instincts and a strong work ethic. He has a smooth, compact swing and a good eye at the plate, allowing him to consistently get on base. Defensively, Castro has soft hands, good footwork, and a strong arm, making him a reliable defender at shortstop. Scouts are impressed with his overall feel for the game and his ability to make adjustments. Castro may not have the raw power or speed of some other prospects, but his baseball IQ and consistent performance make him a valuable asset. Castro's passion for the game is evident in everything he does. He approaches each day with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, making him a joy to coach and a valuable teammate.

6-20. Other Notable Prospects

While the above players are considered to be the cream of the crop, there are plenty of other talented international prospects to keep an eye on. These include:

• Daiverson Gutierrez (SS, Venezuela): A switch-hitting shortstop with good defensive skills and a developing bat.
• Victor Hurtado (SS, Venezuela): Known for his plus speed and ability to play multiple positions.
• Luis Mejia (SS, Dominican Republic): A strong, athletic shortstop with raw power potential.
• Carlos Silva (OF, Venezuela): An outfielder with a strong arm and good defensive instincts.
• Jose Perdomo (SS, Venezuela): A slick-fielding shortstop with a good feel for the game.

And many other potential MLB superstars waiting for their chance to shine.

Impact on MLB Teams

The influx of international talent has a significant impact on MLB teams. It allows them to:

• Access a wider pool of potential players: MLB teams can tap into talent pools around the world.
• Gain a competitive advantage: International players often bring unique skills and perspectives.
• Build for the future: These young prospects can develop into key contributors for years to come.

The international signing period is a crucial part of MLB's talent acquisition strategy, and teams that are successful in this arena often have a bright future ahead of them.

The Future of International Scouting

The world of international scouting is constantly evolving. As baseball becomes more globalized, MLB teams are investing even more resources into finding and developing international talent. This includes:

• Expanding scouting networks: Teams are sending scouts to more countries and regions.
• Investing in training academies: MLB teams are establishing training academies in various countries to develop young players.
• Using advanced technology: Teams are using data analytics and video analysis to evaluate prospects more effectively.

The future of international scouting is bright, and we can expect to see even more talented players from around the world making their way to the major leagues in the years to come.

Conclusion

The 2023 MLB international signing period is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With a wealth of talent from countries like the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, baseball fans have plenty to look forward to. Keep an eye on these young prospects as they develop and make their way through the minor leagues. You might just be watching the next generation of MLB stars!