The Cubs Make A Noise With International Signing

One of the time-periods that often gets overlooked by fans is the time that major league baseball teams are able to sign international prospects. Starting on July 2, teams are finally allowed to sign international prospects. More importantly, teams are now able sign prospects from the Dominican Republic. Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts is a firm believer of putting resources into scouting and developing international players, and that was one the main reasons why Ricketts and the Cubs are opening a first-class facility in the Dominican Republic for scouting and developmental purposes.

The Cubs have been putting their international scouting to use as on the first day of international signings the team added a potential top-5 prospect. The Cubs announced yesterday that they have signed shortstop Enrique Acosta out of the Dominican Republic. Acosta, who is 6’1 and 180 pounds, is considered to be one of the top hitters in Latin American today. As he develops, the expectations are that the power numbers will come. Shortstop does not figure to be the position that gets Acosta to the major leagues, instead third base or one of the corner outfield spots is more likely.

Acosta is expected to play in the Dominican Summer League for a year or two before playing within the Cubs farm system.