:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/35114350/451296094.0.jpg)
July 2nd marks the start of the international signing period, and the Miami Marlins wasted no time, bringing in five international prospects on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, the first day to officially sign international players, Miami agreed to deals with Venezuelan outfielder Anderson Castro, Venezuelan shortstop Andres Villalobo, Dominican Republic outfielder Christian Capellan and right-handers Jesus Guerrero of Panama and Luis Mujica of the Dominican Republic.
"Jeffrey made a decision to increase the international signing budget to give us an opportunity to acquire premium guys," general manager Dan Jennings said.
Anderson Castro, OF, 6-3, 185 lbs Venezuela
Andres Villalobo, SS, Venezuela
Christian Capellan, OF, 6-4, 185 lbs Dominican Republic
Luis Mujica, RHP, Dominican Republic
Jesus Guerrero, RHP, Panama
Capellan, 16, is a 6-foot-4, 185-pound outfielder. The Marlins don't announce financial terms, but Capellan has agreed to a $500,000 bonus.
Castro, 16, is a 6-foot-3, 185-pounder considered a five-tool player. His bonus is around $650,000. Castro's raw talent resembles a young Vladimir Guerrero.
Villalobo, 16, is a switch-hitter, and a speedy shortstop who could project either at short or second base.
Miami has made international scouting a priority so it will be interesting to keep an eye on these players as they progress through the system. The international scouting department has had success in the past signing players such as Edgar Renteria, Miguel Cabrera, and more recently Marcel Ozuna.