Pittsburgh Pirates: Checking in on Ben Cherington's Most Significant International Signings

Where are the significant international signings Ben Cherington has made since becoming general manager?
Attendance was just over 60 people. The Florida Complex League (FCL) Orioles played their first
Attendance was just over 60 people. The Florida Complex League (FCL) Orioles played their first / THOMAS BENDER/HERALD-TRIBUNE / USA TODAY
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Outfielder Tony Blanco Jr.

They also landed outfielder/first baseman Tony Blanco Jr. Blanco Jr. has one of the highest offensive ceilings in the system. A towering 6’6”, 245 pound presence in the box, Blanco Jr. obviously has the potential to be a 40 homer threat. But so far in his brief pro career, which is all of 176 plate appearances, he’s struck out at a 39.2% rate. That’s not atypical for a guy his size. His massive frame also means he’ll likely remain at first base long-term.

The Pirates tried Blanco Jr. out in the outfield in 2022, as he was signed primarily as an outfielder, but only took the field as a first baseman this past season.