Houston Astros Expected to Sign Two Top-50 International Prospects
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The Houston Astros haven't been shy in the international market. Building a pipeline to Cuba and finding many diamonds in the rough from other Latin American countries, the Astros have shined on the international level.
Now with a new signing period approaching this offseason, MLB Pipeline released its top-50 ranking, pegging two Houston targets inside the top 25. Those two are shortstop Camilo Diaz and outfielder Emil Valencia.
A 17-year-old Dominican infielder, Diaz was graded out at 50 on all his tools except his hit tool which is at 55. He has been praised for his plus-bat and compact swing combined with a superb plate recognition.
Valencia, a 16-year-old righty, is known for hitting. His tools are graded the same as Diaz's, but what will carry him through a system is his bat. MLB Pipeline also noted his versatility can stretch him to all three outfield positions.
Last season, the Astros were favorites to sign one top-50 international prospect: Kenni Gomez. With two heavily touted players in the mix now, Houston's system could feel a boost at the lower level in the next few seasons.
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