Updates: If interested in more defector profiles and comparisons, here are Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez, Dalier Hinojosa, Aledmis Diaz, Dariel Alvarez, Alexander Guerrero, and Misael Siverio. I have previously profiled Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez and Dalier Hinojosa. This time it’s Odrisamer Despaigne, who defected two weeks ago by walking away from the national team at an airport in Paris. No word yet whether the Cubs have interest, as Despaigne’s …
2013 International Free Agency: Jen-Ho Tseng, Leandro Linares, and an Update on the Budget
Jen-Ho Tseng Interest? Today Jesse Sanchez reported that the Cubs are the favorite to acquire Taiwanese right-hander Jen-Ho Tseng. The Twins have previously been reported as interested. Tseng was at one point was considered the best player in this class, according to BA, but his stuff seems to have regressed somewhat, and they ended up ranking him at #23 (TAM #12). My understanding is that …
Dalier Hinojosa Stats, and a Comparison with Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez
Updates: If interested in more defector profiles and comparisons, here are Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez, Odrisamer Despaigne, Aledmis Diaz, Dariel Alvarez, Alexander Guerrero, and Misael Siverio. Last week, I profiled Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez, a Cuban defector drawing lots of attention on the free agent market. Gonzalez is still seeking approval from the US Treasury, but could sign with the Dodgers an MLB team soon. Dalier Hinojosa is …
Ben Badler on the Cubs’ IFA Pickle
Baseball America’s international free agency guru Ben Badler was on the Baseball America Podcast today, where he discussed many of the issues we’ve been debating around these parts related to the Cubs’ sticky situation. It was a very informative interview, so I have transcribed extensively. To date, Badler has correctly predicted the signing team for 20 of the 22 signed free agents from his …
2013 International Free Agency: Did the Cubs Expect to Exceed Their Pool Space All Along?
Phil Rogers reported this morning that the Cubs may well continue spending in 2013 international free agency, ignoring imposed spending limits in continued pursuit of the best remaining players. I have my doubts, but let's assume for the moment it's true. Is this a stroke of genius by the front office in exploiting available loopholes, or something else? (Spoiler Alert: …
Cubs Acquire Moreno, Arrieta, Strop, Guerrier, Go All In on 2013 IFAs
The Cubs made a series of moves today, the net result being the acquisition of a few marginal players and some additional pool space to sign international free agents. Trade Roundup Trade 1: Cubs give up Scott Feldman and Steve Clevenger for Jake Arrieta, Pedro Strop, and pool space Feldman had been good this year, but unfortunately his track record …
Matt Garza and 2013 International Free Agency
The 2013 international free agency signing period starts July 2nd (Hey, that's tomorrow!). All international players who turn 16 by August 31st are eligible for free agency. Top prospects from Latin America typically sign shortly after they turn 16. Korean and Taiwanese prospects, on the other hand, are usually not signed until they graduate from high school. Players over the age …
Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez Stats
Updates: The Dodgers are reportedly out on Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez. If interested in more defector profiles, and comparisons to MAG, here are Dalier Hinojosa, Odrisamer Despaigne, Aledmis Diaz, Dariel Alvarez, Alexander Guerrero, and Misael Siverio. The latest Cuban defector to draw serious attention from Major League teams is Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez. I’m not sure who is representing him, but they have definitely …
Cespedes, Darvish, and Puig, Oh My!*#&%!
Yoenis Cespedes hit two home runs for the A’s Tuesday night. Yasiel Puig hit two home runs for the Dodgers. Yu Darvish didn’t pitch, but no matter, he’s still on pace for 320+ strikeouts this year. The Cubs’ plan following the 2011 season was to make a run at a slew of international free agents. That started with Darvish, an Iranian-Japanese phenom …
A Banner Year For International Free Agents
If we are judging by their names, that is. And I definitely am. We’re still a couple of months away from the beginning of the signing period, but this fanpost over at the Minor League Ball/ MLB Bonus Baby juggneraut is well worth your attention, at the very least to bookmark now so you can convincingly scoff at Cub signings when they …