New York Yankees: Top International Prospect Alexander Vargas Signed

The New York Yankees have been very busy compiling international bonus pool money in recent trades.  As that money has to be used during the current signing period, the organization has also been active in signing international free agents.  After signing a very highly touted pitching prospect in Osiel Rodriguez, the Yankees reach an agreement with an infield prospect.

According to Jesse Sanchez with MLB.com, the New York Yankees have signed Alexander Vargas.  Vargas ranked eighth on MLB Pipeline’s Top 30 International Prospects list.

Although the Yankees were able to sign Osiel Rodriguez to a $600,000 bonus, they dished out an eye-opening $2.5 million bonus to bring Vargas into the organization.

MLB Pipeline had the following to say about the switch-hitting Vargas:

"On offense, he has shown a plus hit tool and is known for making hard contact. He might be a better overall hitter from the left side at the moment, but he shows more power from the right side. He runs a 6.5-6.6 second 60-yard timed run and has proven to be a good baserunner in games. Some believe he has the potential to steal 30 bases in the big leagues and sport a .270 batting average."

More from Call to the Pen

• Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
• Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
• Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
• Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
• 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals

MLB Pipeline also added the following regarding the defensive ability of Vargas:

"One of the top defenders in this year’s class, Vargas has above average hands with a strong arm and good range to both sides. He’s known for his quick first steps, good body control and fearless approach on offense and defense. He’s also wowed scouts with his ability to track down fly balls in center field."

Despite trading away talented young players such as Dillon Tate, Billy McKinney, Tyler Austin, and Brandon Drury for short-term, win-now veteran players, the Yankees are restocking the farm system during this international signing period.

Although Vargas is the top Yankees signing according to the aforementioned MLB Pipeline list, a few other signings also appear on the list.  Osiel Rodriguez is ranks tenth, Kevin Alcantara is ranks 11th, Antonio Gomez is ranks 12th, and Denny Larrondo ranks 30th.

As the Yankees have a crowded 40-man roster, it makes sense to acquire very young, controllable talent through the international market to replace those who were moved out in win-now trades.  Will the signing of Alexander Vargas be the last high-profile signing for the Yankees, or will they use their remaining international bonus pool money to make another big move?