The Atlanta Braves are expected to sign one of the most coveted talents in the upcoming international signing period; he’s just 16 years old.
Beginning on January 15, 2025, Atlanta will be able to offer a contract to teenage outfield prospect Diego Tornes of Cuba. The deal figures to be around $3 million, according to a new report from Beisbol FR’s Francys Romero.
The Braves are considered the far and away favorites to land Tornes, whose scouting report reveals a prospect with advanced skills and power for his age.
"The switch-hitter, center fielder, 6.5 60-yard runner, and multi-tool player was born in Havana, Cuba, and left the island in 2021 at age 13," Romero said.
"Several scouts believe Tornes is one of the most advanced players in terms of tools for the upcoming international period. His hitting is given a 55-60 on the 80 scale."
"Power as a switch-hitter also fluctuates in the 55-60 range, producing power from both sides. Several scouts compare him to Anthony Santander in his early career."
"Tornes' arm and defense are considered plus, with gold-glove caliber potential. His overall rating is in the 55s, making him one of the top prospects for 2024/25."
As the Braves keep their hope afloat for a playoff push in 2024, the franchise continues to make chess moves on the grand scale to remain one of the most consistently excellent organizations in Major League Baseball moving forward.
At the top of Atlanta’s talented roster are two international-born gems, Marcell Ozuna (Dominican Republic) and the injured Ronald Acuña Jr. (Venezuela). Acuña won a National League MVP last season and Ozuna is very much in contention to win one this year.
In the best-case scenario for the Braves, Tornes will turn into Atlanta's next great international star.
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