How Important is the International Signing?

The International Signing Day is July 2, which means it's only 2 days away. This is becoming a very important day. Players like Yasiel Puig, Jorge Soler, Yoenis Cespedes, and Yu Darvish have come through this process, and have shown that they can play along the regular major leaguers, perhaps even better. Puig, Cespedes, and Darvish have provided almost immediate boosts to the Dodgers, A's, and Rangers while Soler has a few years to wait. But, should teams continue to look into these International Players?

Playing against professionals in other countries, it's hard to judge whether a player is able to play in the major leagues. Scouts are tremendous, and they'll keep getting better, so if they see a prospect who they know can play, why not risk a few million dollars a year to give these guys a shot. With the salary cap at $150 million, a deal like Puig's (6 years, $42 million) would be a good investment, especially if the player can play. And, Puig has shown off his skills, showing that he can be an anchor in any lineup. That makes other teams keep kicking themselves on passing up on Puig. Teams like the Phillies, who's offense has been inconsistent, that were looking at Puig or Cespedes, have missed out. Imagine Puig playing right field, rather than Delmon Young. 

Yasiel Puig: 22 years old, .436 AVG, 7 HR, 16 RBI, 101 AB

Yu Darvish: 25 years old, 7-3, 2.95 ERA, 143 SO, 106 2/3 IP

Yoenis Cespedes: 27 years old, .226 AVG, 15 HR, 42 RBI, 265 AB

These numbers are impressive, and contracts like Puig's are great investments for teams. So, on July 2, some teams need to just keep doing what they're doing in signing these guys, and other teams need to get on their horse and bid for these guys. The International Signing is very important, and I believe it will help teams turn themselves around with immediate boosts. July 2nd could be an important day for the future of some teams. 

The International Signing is very important, if you believe you can find diamonds in the rough. Investments can be made, and the International Signing is the place to begin for many teams.