Twins think globally, add prospects

 

The Twins are reliable in one area of the offseason. They can usually attract a pretty good international prospect every winter. The eventual maturation of these players may leave something to be desired, but based strictly on prospect rank, the Twins are often found among signers of top ten prospects.

This year, that prospect is Daiber De Los Santos, a shortstop that was #8 among this year's international prospects. De Los Santos is regarded as a top defensive prospect, so good that his star has risen this high despite a refined offensive game. 

They also added the #39 prospect Eduardo Beltre, an outfielder who has more projectability as an offensive threat. What makes his signing truly remarkable is that his right handed. It's crazy to think about, but in about 5 years or so, the Twins could have a big right handed bat, if Beltre pans out. 

All of these are big ifs, of course, and that is the lottery contained within international free agency. There is less material to observe when scouting these players as compared to the draft. International free agents are younger than even the youngest draftees, and cameras aren't as pervasive at events in Latin America as they are in the US. International free agency is much more about projection and physical development than even the draft is. 

If you are looking for an inexpensive method to adding a superstar, this is the way to do it. Because of the patience it requires, and the lack of guarantee, it isn't necessarily the first option for bigger market teams. Hitting on a couple of these signings are crucial to the viability of small market teams.

Not for this year, though. International Prospects are signed because of their raw talent, not because of a particular need the organization can try to fill. De Los Santos doesn't add to the logjam in the middle infield among top tier prospects and Carlos Correa. Beltre doesn't offer a right handed option for the offense. It's simply easier to develop skills when working with talent, and its good to have talent in house. 

The Twins are still looking to the future and spending some money, even if it isn't the splashy, Major League roster move fans are hoping for.