The Oakland Athletics continue to keep busy this offseason, making another foray into the international market. The team has come to terms with center field prospect Vicmal de la Cruz. The 16-year-old outfielder from the Dominican Republic is considered one of the top hitting prospects in this year's international signing class. BA indicates that de la Cruz has some of the best all around tools of the class.
The A's have stepped up their international presence this year with significant signings since July. On July 2 it was announced that they signed Venezuelan third baseman Renato Nunez with a $2.2 million signing bonus, which was tied for the third highest bonus for any international amateur prospect this year. On July 22, the A's announced the signing of a top catching prospect in Argy Raga.
Given that these prospects are all 16 or 17, it will certainly be a while before they make an impact with the major league squad, if ever. As teenagers these players are still developing physically, which means a lot could change in the coming years. Nonetheless, by investing this much money the Oakland A's have to believe they're getting some high quality talent that could make a big difference over the long haul.