On the first day of the international signing period, the Braves made significant moves by securing two top talents. They signed 16-year-old Cuban outfielder Diego Torne to a $2.5 million bonus and Dominican right-handed pitcher Raudy Reyes for $1.8 million, according to sources familiar with the agreements. Torne is highly regarded as one of the best prospects in this class, while Reyes, who has a fastball reaching 101 mph, stands out for his power pitching.
In addition to these two, the Braves also signed eight other players, including four Dominican right-handed pitchers—Yostin Pinales, Yangel Martinez, Lionel Prevosti, and Wilmer Almonte—and four more players: infielders Juan Elejandro, Malvin Fernandez, Yassel Garcia, and outfielder Elias Reyno, all from the Dominican Republic. The Braves’ total international bonus pool for this period is $6,261,600, with signings under $10,000 not counting toward this pool.
Torne, a switch-hitter with significant power, is expected to be the Braves’ most expensive international signing this year. Baseball America ranks him among the top prospects for this cycle, predicting he’ll receive one of the largest bonuses. They describe him as a tall, physical player with excellent bat speed and plus power potential. Though he has had some swing inconsistencies, he’s noted for his accuracy and ability to track pitches well.
Reyes, who was a late riser in the scouting process, is a 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher with an overpowering fastball. Though still developing his off-speed pitches, Reyes’ potential has impressed scouts and made him a worthy investment for the Braves.
These signings continue a recent trend for the Braves, who have been successful in securing top international position players, such as shortstop Jose Perdomo and outfielder Luis Guanipa in recent years. With the lifting of previous restrictions, the Braves have re-established themselves as a significant player in the international market.
