The Atlanta Braves’ track record in international free agency under Alex Anthopoulos has been, at best, uneven. Big-bonus signings like Ambioris Tavarez, Diego Benitez, Douglas Glod, Luis Guanipa, and Jose Perdomo have so far either stalled in development or failed to live up to expectations.
But Diego Tornes might be the one to flip that narrative.
Signed in January for a $2.5 million bonus, Tornes entered the Braves’ system as one of the top bats in his international class — a 6’4” switch-hitter with advanced plate discipline and the athleticism to project as a potential five-tool player. At just 16 years old, he’s still a long way from Truist Park, but his debut in the Dominican Summer League is showing why Atlanta was so eager to land him.
Braves See Early Returns From the DSL
In his first 32 games, Tornes is slashing .279/.395/.402. The power hasn’t shown up yet in home run form, but his speed and gap power are already apparent — 24 stolen bases and five triples so far. Even more encouraging is his mature approach: a near-.400 OBP and an understanding of the strike zone that’s rare for his age.
While DSL stats may not mean as much, the league’s main purpose is to get teenagers acclimated to pro ball routines and conditioning. Tornes is already using his tools in games, which is a major step for any young prospect.
The next milestone for Tornes will be carrying that hit tool into full-season ball while adding muscle to his frame. If the strength comes and the swing continues to play, the Braves could finally have the kind of high-upside international signee they’ve been searching for since Anthopoulos took over.
It’s still early, but Tornes’ combination of size, speed, plate discipline, and athletic projection is enough to make Atlanta’s player development staff — and fans — cautiously optimistic that this time, they’ve found a gem.
