The Mariners have had a busy offseason. On January 18th, the team signed three new talents. Now that the international signing period has opened, they have also signed eight international players. The news was announced by the Mariners’ international amateur scouting director Frankie Thon on January 27th:
“We are excited to add this crop of young talent to our organization… We look forward to the start of their pro careers with the Mariners.”
Of the eight new signees, one is Sebastian Barrios from Guatemala (18); William Calderon (17) and Carlos Gonzalez (18) from Panama; Dervy Ventura (18), Frederik Jimenez (17) and Joaan De Jesus (17) from the Dominican Republic; and Wuilliams Rodriguez (17) and Erick Rodriguez(18) from Venezuela. All of the players are considered versatile and talented athletes, according to Thon’s statement, with more than one showing the potential for solid curveballs.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of some of the players signed by the Mariners:
Joaan De Jesus
De Jesus possesses a strong frame as well as an impressive throwing arm and defensive versatility. His raw power, plus baseball IQ and fantastic bat speed make him a player to keep an eye on.
Carlos Gonzalez
Gonzalez gave impressive performances at Panama national tournaments and shows better-than-average raw power and toughness.
Erick Rodriguez
Rodriguez possesses excellent athleticism, lending him agility despite a six-foot-one frame, shows solid curveball potential and a fastball velocity between the high 80s and low 90s.
Dervy Ventura
Ventura shows impressive agility as well as the versatility to play both centerfield positions as well as middle-infield positions. The switch-hitter has plenty of speed and a contact-oriented approach.
What do you think about the new players? We are excited to follow along with their careers.
