Toronto Blue Jays: International prospects that are speeding up the rebuild

Lourdes Gurriel Jr.

The Blue Jays off season was highlighted by the departure of Edwin Encarnacion, the signing of Kendry Morales, and the return of Jose Bautista, but the best deal may have gone unnoticed.

Despite defecting from Cuba with his brother in February 2016 Lourdes Gurriel Jr. didn’t sign until after his 23rd birthday to avoid the international signing cap.

He was considered one of the top available prospects and Toronto signed him to a $22 million 7 year deal. Since the Jays could not sign a top-tier player during the 2016 international period he was the best possible option.

Gurriel projects as an outfielder or at shortstop but has played all infield positions (other than catcher) during his six seasons in Cuba.

In his last season in the Cuban National Series, he hit .344, with a .407 OBP, and 10 home runs in 59 games, playing mostly in left field.

At 23, the Blue Jays hope the former Havana Industriales star will not take long to develop in America.

His first season for the Dunedin Blue Jays has been a struggle so far. Playing one game in April, Gurriel went down with a hamstring injury and did not return until June 19th. But now that he’s back expect him to climb the organization’s ladder this summer.