The period of international signatures of MLB once again confirms the relevance of Cuban talent in the global baseball market, with a new generation of young talents who secured multi-million contracts and development agreements with several Major League organizations.
Reports from specialized journalists such as Francys Romero et Yordano Carmona (Cuban ball) have once again become an essential reference for closely following this new generation who dreams of reaching the Great Caravan, according to The New Herald.
The biggest brands: the new wave
At the top of the list by the bonus amount is the shortstop Ruben Gallegowho signed for $1.8 million with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Originally from Havana and trained at the Mickey’s academy, directed by Ysbel Medina, Gallego left Cuba at just 13 years old and is considered by several recruiters as one of the best talents of his generation. An ambidextrous batsman, with excellent contact, solid defense and a powerful arm, he reinforces the strong Cuban presence in Arizona.
Very close in relevance is the shortstop Joniel Hernandezalso from Havana, who reached a deal with the San Diego Padres for 1.4 million. Hernández combines speed, power and explosiveness, and although his natural position is that of campocorto, several evaluators project him with sufficient versatility to also play in the central garden.
Another notable name is that of Jaims Martínezsigned by the Chicago Cubs for $900,000. Considered one of the most complete players on the group, he features a five-tool projection, with a 60-rated defense thanks to his instincts and internal clock, while continuing to build his fitness.
The group of top players is completed by the infielder Leonardo Sevilla (Villa Clara), who signed for $750,000 with Arizona, and shortstop Karell Naranjo (Granma), signed by the Cleveland Guardians for $625,000.
Sevilla profiles as a contact hitter with potential for the second base position, while Naranjo stands out for his left-handed batting, nimble hands and ability to move around the infield.
The middle row: depth and projection
In the midstream sector, promising names are also emerging. The field player Loidel Amaya signed with Cleveland for $560,000, plus $140,000 in scholarship money, while outfielder Darián Rojas received $500,000 from the Athletics. Both stand out for their offensive contact and their potential for physical growth.
Among the pitchers, the right-hander Jonathan Hechevarria signed with the Atlanta Braves for $340,000, with a pitch velocity hovering between 90 and 93 mph. For his part, Jordan Pérez, member of the Cuba Sub-15 team, agreed to 300,000 with the San Diego Padres, attracting attention thanks to his control and his arsenal of secondary pitches.
Cleveland was one of the most active organizations, also incorporating gardeners Yhon Guerrero ($250,000) and Loidel Amaya, consolidating a notable Cuban presence in its farm system.
Other companies to highlight
The ranking expands with other important additions:
Rolthemnay Marquetti (Pirates)
Luis Yamilk Riscart (Dodgers)
Yoenis Morales (Blue Jays)
Ricardo Pullés, receiver of Cuban roots born in Russia (Dodgers)
Patrick Silva, Italian and son of former Cuban player Conrado Silva, was recruited by the Phillies after distinguishing himself during international youth tournaments.
A repeating pattern
Beyond the numbers, the pattern remains the same: young people who left Cuba at an early age, trained in international academies and are now seeing their sacrifice rewarded with an opportunity in organized professional baseball.
The international signing period once again confirms that, despite the crisis in the Cuban sports system, the island’s talent is still highly valued in the global MLB market, and that a new generation is already starting to make its way into the minor leagues with their sights set on the Big Leagues.
