The international free agent market is set to open on January 15, where most teams have their eyes on Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki. But, according to reports from Francys Romero, the Arizona Diamondbacks are planning to sign outfielder Elian De La Cruz once the market opens.
The 17-year-old, who will turn 18 in September, was born in the Dominican Republic. According to MLB Pipeline, he is currently ranked as the 27th-best international prospect. De La Cruz is 6’1” and weighs 180 pounds. He bats and throws right-handed.
As for the contract De La Cruz will be signing, he will receive $1.2MM, a large chunk of their allotted bonus pool of $6.9MM. After the D-Backs added Corbin Burnes to a star-studded rotation, this likely means that they will be out on the bid for Roki Sasaki, who will command close to a team’s entirety of their respective bonus pools.
According to scouting reports from Francys Romero, De La Cruz is seen with an average outfielder’s arm, ranking it 50-55 on the 20-80 grade scale. He could eventually develop into a corner outfielder, as his glove is not near the caliber to play center field. However, one of his best qualities as a player is his ability to hit for power. He can drive the ball and has solid bat speed, but one thing he will need to work on is his discipline in the batter’s box.
Stay tuned for other international player signings throughout the remainder of the week, as players and teams will make agreements, and their dreams will become a reality in the coming weeks.
