According to reports, the Oakland A’s are considered to be one of the two frontrunners to land Cuban outfield prospect Luis Pino.
The Oakland A’s have a reputation for refusing to spend money. That reputation is partially accurate – they typically do not go after the top free agents and trade away those players whose salaries get too high via arbitration.
However, there is one area where the A’s do spend, and that is in international free agency. The A’s were the surprising winners of the Yoenis Cespedes sweepstakes years ago, and have continued to spend to bring in top talent such as Robert Pauson and Lazaro Armenteros. While these signings have had mixed results, the A’s have not shied away from the international market.
They may be set to bring another top international player into the system. According to reports, they are considered to be one of the two frontrunners to land Cuban outfield prospect Luis Pino when the international signing period begins in January.
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Pino recently held a showcase in the Dominican Republic, where he needed to establish residency in order to become eligible to be signed. Representatives from multiple teams were in attendance, and he is slated to have another showcase next Saturday.
He is an intriguing prospect. According to scouts, he has above average speed, which should be beneficial on the basepaths and in the outfield. His defensive home is not certain, as he is considered to have the type of skills that could translate to either right or center. He displayed more power than expected and showed a solid hit tool.
Even if the A’s do sign Pina, he may take some time to arrive in the majors. He is just 16 years old, and will likely need a few years in the minors before he would be ready to make an impact on the major league level. However, the A’s interest confirms their willingness to invest in at least one area.
The Oakland A’s are considered one of the favorites to land Luis Pino. If they do manage to land him, Pino will be another intriguing international prospect in their system.