The Cuban right-handed pitcher who is expected to demand a record-breaking sum for a pitcher from the international bonus pool will be able to sign with an MLB team on Sept. 7.
The Oakland A's are considered heavy favorites to sign Morales, who peaked at 97 or 99 mph. He defected from Cuba's U-23 team in Mexico City.
In Mexico City, where he held open showcases for teams in January and April, he has a breaking ball that projects to be above average, but his changeup is a clear third pitch and his command still comes and goes, as is common for pitchers with that kind of velocity as a teenager
The current international signing period has ended and most of the pool money has been spent.
The biggest bonus given to a pitcher since the international bonus pool was capped was to Cuban right-handed pitcher Sandy Gaston. The Los Angeles Angels gave Ohtani $2.315 million in December of last year.
Oakland has spent at the top of the international market recently. It would have echoes of a bold move from the past if the A's can land Morales. The A's set an international bonus record in 2008 when they signed Dominican right-handed pitcher Michael Ynoa.
The total international pool amount for each MLB team is between $4.5 million and $6 million annually. Jarlin Susana, an 18-year-old right-handed pitcher who was included in the Juan Soto trade package from San Diego to Washington, received the highest bonus for a pitcher.
The top players usually sign at age 16 and are seen as more risky than pitchers. At least one position player has received at least $4 million each year under this system, and the top 15 bonuses have all gone to position players.
The news of Morales being a free agent was reported by the website.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
