Major League Baseball's international signing period opens today, ushering in a new wave of amateur talent to join the top internationally signed prospects in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.
Ahead of this year's projected signings, Sam Dykstra, Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com recently identified each club's top international prospect, tabbing 19-year-old infielder Yordany De Los Santos for the Pirates.
"De Los Santos was a key signing for the Pirates in 2022, getting $1.2 million to sign in January," they wrote. "He’s seen time at three infield positions, with third base perhaps the best long-term home if he settles into one spot. He’s yet to show he’s ready for full-season ball after two tries in 2023 and last year, but he’s hit .340/.404/.494 in 74 total games in the Florida Complex League and cut down his strikeout rate considerably overall in 2024, with an eye toward conquering the Single-A Florida State League at age 20 this season."
De Los Santos ranks as the No. 13 prospect in the Pirates' system, according to MLB Pipeline. One of the top prospects in his signing class in 2022, he earned a quick promotion from the Florida Complex League to Single-A Bradenton in 2023; and while he struggled at the plate following his promotion, the Pirates are encouraged by his bat speed and ability to add strength given his young age.
Pirates sign brother of current top international prospect in Pittsburgh's system
De Los Santos' younger brother, Johan, signed with the Pirates on the opening day of the 2025 international signing period. His $2.25 million deal ranks among the highest financial commitments that the organization has ever made to an international player. The lefty-hitting shortstop is MLB Pipeline's No. 23-ranked prospect in the 2025 international class and is also one of the youngest members of the class at just 16 years of age.
The Pirates have also signed Darrell Morel, another Dominican shortstop, to a $1.778 million bonus after he de-committed from his handshake agreement with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to Jesse Borek of MLB.com, Morel has the potential to take a path similar to that of Oneil Cruz and end up playing a position other than shortstop by the time he reaches the Majors.
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