The Atlanta Braves are gearing up for a crucial offseason. While fans often focus on the major league roster for 2025 and beyond, the team’s minor league system and international pipeline demand attention. A productive offseason on the international front could be pivotal. Specifically, the Braves look to reverse recent missteps in their global scouting and development approach.
The Braves’ International Blueprint
The Braves’ track record in the international market has been a double-edged sword. Iconic players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies highlight Atlanta’s ability to spot transformative talent. However, stumbles in compliance and underwhelming results from recent signings have left the franchise searching for consistency. Enter the next phase of opportunity: the 2025 international signing period, beginning January 15.
Armed with an international bonus pool of $6,261,600, the Braves are poised to make a splash, and all eyes are on Diego Tornes, a 16-year-old outfielder from Cuba. Ranked as Baseball America’s #5 international prospect, Tornes is rumored to be signing with Atlanta for a hefty bonus of around $3 million.
Who is Diego Tornes?
Standing at an impressive 6’4″, Tornes already looks the part of a future MLB slugger. A switch-hitter with exceptional raw power, his bat speed and natural athleticism have scouts buzzing. He projects as a player who could eventually hit for power across all fields, though his ability to maintain versatility in the outfield remains to be seen.
While Tornes has the athleticism to play all three outfield spots, his growing frame may push him to a corner position—a transition that would be more than acceptable if his bat develops as expected.
The Braves’ Need for a Prospect Turnaround
Previous big-money signings like Diego Benitez and Ambioris Tavarez have yet to deliver the desired results. Other promising signings, such as Luis Guanipa and Jose Perdomo, are still finding their footing. These struggles have left the Braves minor league system lacking depth in position players. This is a concern they hope Tornes can help address.
Tornes could inject some needed energy into Atlanta’s farm system if he can live up to the hype. While prospects of this age remain unpredictable, his combination of size, power, and potential makes him an exciting bet for a franchise. As the signing period approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Tornes can become the next great international star to wear a Braves uniform.
