In keeping with their progressive philosophy, the Atlanta Braves inked 17-year-old prodigy Jose Perdomo to a record-breaking $5 million bonus, the largest sum ever paid to an international player of Venezuelan descent.
This tactic fits with the Braves’ long-term extension plan of securing young, potential talent. Baseball Operations President Alex Anthopoulos has been a master at this strategy, which has allowed him to assemble one of the league’s deepest lineups.
Perdomo is a highly sought-after infielder who sticks out in the 2024 international class because of his enhanced shortstop defense and good contact abilities.
Ready to shine
Even though their farm system is currently rated 25th, adding Perdomo could improve it. The 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuna Jr.’s idolization raises questions about Perdomo’s signing and suggests a possible mentoring relationship.
Even if the young player’s career with the Braves is still in its early phases, Atlanta’s decision to sign him demonstrates their dedication to creating a bright future under Anthopoulos’ direction.
Braves Latin America Scout Jonathan Cruz stated, “I think the most significant thing to talk about here is Perdomo’s bat, first and foremost.”
These children are obviously quite young. If you can teach anything at all, we believe that hitting is the toughest thing to teach. His calling card is that.
With Ethan Salas beside him and a prospect with the San Diego Padres, he had a major showcase, but the competition was far above their skill levels. Fastballs clocked at 97, 96 MPH, hard-breaking balls were being thrown by pitchers who had previously pitched in AA and AAA.
“And during the entire process, I believe that’s when we were kind of astounded by the changes he was making and the performance, and we decided that this is the person we needed to pursue.”
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