In Major League Baseball, teams are constantly on the lookout for top international talent. Despite the lack of an international draft, which was shelved due to opposition from the Major League Baseball Players Association, teams are still finding ways to strengthen their rosters through international signings. Even with restrictions on signing pools, the most aggressive teams continue to land highly regarded international teenagers.
The San Diego Padres have been at the forefront of international signings in recent years. Despite losing $1 million from their signing pool after giving Xander Bogaerts an impressive 11-year, $280-million deal, the Padres managed to add shortstop Leo De Vries from the Dominican Republic this year. In 2023, they also signed catcher Ethan Salas, who is currently ranked as the No. 8 overall prospect by MLB.com. These additions demonstrate the Padres' commitment to investing in young, international talent.
