Even with the lockout still in effect, the Houston Astros agreed to contracts with 15 international free agents from the Dominican Republic and Cuba.
The International Free Agents
It is no surprise that the Astros continue to rank at the top of the league for international free agent signings. In this year’s international free agent signings, the Astros managed to come to terms with 15 players, including 12 from the Dominican Republic and three from Cuba.
One of the great things that the Astros have been able to do so well is building a roster that is so diverse with talent from all over the world. With players like Yuli Gurriel, Jose Urquidy, Jose Altuve, and Yordan Alvarez, the Astros can attract these young international players because they all have some connection to the current Astros players.
Luis Baez, an 18-year old from the Dominican Republic, is one of the international free agents that the Astros are excited to sign. Standing at 6-foot-1, the outfielder is a power hitter that can hit for above average and drive in runs. One of the key areas that the Astros will focus on will be his defense. It is also important to note that Baez was the 27th ranked prospect by Baseball America.
The international signing period runs from January 15 through December 15, 2022. The Astros will continue to look for more talent in the coming weeks and months, but they are most certainly off to a terrific start.
Here is a list of international players who were signed by the Astros today:
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