Oakland Athletics will reportedly sign prospect Pedro Pineda

The Oakland Athletics are set to continue their international spending spree, as they will reportedly sign prospect Pedro Pineda in the next signing period.

The Oakland Athletics are not exactly known for spending money; in fact, there was a book and a movie based on their ability to find bargains in free agency and trades. It is a strategy that has served the A’s well, as they have consistently been able to contend for a postseason berth.

That approach has not included the international market. Last year, the A’s signed shortstop Robert Pauson, considered the second best international prospect, to a $5.1 million signing bonus. According to reports, the A’s are set to strike again, as they will sign outfielder Pedro Pineda for over $4 million.

This signing will happen during the next international signing period, which had been set to begin on July 2. However, given the delayed season and roster freeze that has occurred due to the pandemic, that date may be pushed back as far as next year.

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Pineda gives the A’s another high profile international signing. In addition to snagging Pauson, they were the surprise victors in the Yeonis Cespedes chase, and had inked Lazaro Armenteros during the 2016-17 signing period. He will be another addition to the A’s success in Latin America.

It is easy to dream big with Pineda. Already 6′ tall and weighing 180 pounds, he is considered to be a strong physical specimen, a center fielder who could end up being an all around player with an excellent set of tools. If his power and speed develop as expected, Pineda could be a future 25/25 player at the major league level.

Obviously, there is still a long time before Pineda would reach the majors. The A’s will likely take their time with the highly regarded outfielder, making sure he is ready before pushing him to the next level. In fact, it would not be a surprise if his debut does not take place until next year, with the A’s giving him time in their Arizona facilities as they did with Pauson.

The Oakland Athletics are set to make another splash in international free agency. This time, it will be intriguing outfielder Pedro Pineda.