ATLANTA — The Braves have a storied history of gambling on international talent. Sometimes the bets pay off spectacularly, like in the case of Ronald Acuña Jr. Other times, the investment yields little return. With this year’s class headlined by Cuban outfielder Diego Tornes, Dominican pitcher Raudy Reyes, and Venezuelan infielder Angel Carmona, the team is optimistic about the future. Will these young players live up to their potential? Time will tell, but excitement is already in the air.
Lessons from Past International Classes
The Braves’ approach to the international market has been a mixed bag. In 2014, they handed out notable bonuses:
- $1 million to Juan Yepez, now a fringe player fighting for a role with the Nationals.
- $350,000 to Izzy Wilson, who peaked at High-A before being released.
- Only $100,000 to Acuña Jr., one of baseball’s brightest stars and arguably one of the best bargains in MLB history.
This disparity illustrates the challenges of scouting and projecting the futures of teenage athletes. While domestic drafts involve evaluating high school and college players, international scouting delves into the unpredictable development of 16-year-olds—a task akin to reading tea leaves.
Still, the Braves see enormous promise in this year’s signees, even as history reminds them of the inherent risks.
Why the Hype Around Diego Tornes?
Diego Tornes has captured the imagination of Braves scouts. Hailing from Cuba, the outfielder boasts raw tools that make evaluators dream of future All-Star appearances. At 16, Tornes is already showcasing exceptional speed and a developing power stroke. Scouts describe his swing as smooth, with the potential to evolve into a consistent home run threat.
But there’s more to Tornes than just athletic ability. His coaches rave about his work ethic, maturity, and ability to adapt. These intangible qualities could make the difference between being a star or just another prospect who didn’t quite make it.
The Arms Race: Raudy Reyes
Dominican pitcher Raudy Reyes is another standout from this year’s crop. At 6-foot-3 with a lanky frame, Reyes already touches the mid-90s with his fastball. Add a sharp breaking ball and an improving changeup, and you’ve got a profile that mirrors some of the league’s current top starters.
Development will be key for Reyes. The Braves have a strong track record of grooming pitchers, with players like Max Fried and Spencer Strider as shining examples. However, Reyes must navigate the physical and mental grind of minor league baseball—something even the most talented pitchers often struggle with.
Angel Carmona’s Upside
Angel Carmona, a Venezuelan infielder, rounds out the Braves’ trio of highly touted prospects. Known for his defensive prowess, Carmona already draws comparisons to elite MLB shortstops for his smooth hands and rocket arm.
Offensively, Carmona’s bat is a work in progress, but flashes of potential are there. His ability to make consistent contact and his willingness to learn suggest he could become an impact player.
While many infield prospects falter under the weight of expectations, Carmona’s poise gives the Braves hope that he can defy the odds.
The Road Ahead
The journey from international signing to MLB stardom is long and uncertain. The Braves know this well, having experienced both triumphs and letdowns over the years. To maximize the potential of this class, the organization will need to invest heavily in player development.
For fans, there’s reason to feel hopeful. Tornes, Reyes, and Carmona represent the kind of talent that could shape the next era of Braves baseball. Whether they succeed or not, the excitement they bring is a reminder of why the international market remains a vital part of the game’s future.
