Miami Marlins reportedly land Victor Victor Mesa, Victor Mesa Jr
The Miami Marlins have fulfilled at least one of their goals for this offseason, as they have reportedly signed Victor Victor Mesa and his brother Victor Mesa Jr.
Over the past few weeks, it has become all the more apparent that the Miami Marlins plans for the offseason have centered around signing the Mesa Brothers. Not only is Victor Victor Mesa considered the top international prospect available, but his brother, Victor Mesa Jr., is an intriguing prospect in his own right.
The Marlins pulled out all the stops to try to land the duo. They hosted their free agent showcase, along with that of fellow Cuban prospect Sandy Gaston. Mimi made several trades to boost their international free agent cap, moves considered to be geared towards landing Mesa and his brother, if not all three. Yet, the Marlins would have to contend with the Orioles, who had entered the international free agent signing period with the most available cap space.
In the end, the Marlins have won out. According to reports, Miami will be signing both of the Mesa Brothers, with an announcement expected on Monday.
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There is the thought that the elder Mesa will require minimal time in the minors before being able to make his major league debut. Even if his development takes up to a year, he still has the potential to be a star. Although he has minimal power, his excellent speed and defense, along with his strong contact ability. At just 22 years old, Mesa may be a centerpiece for the Marlins for years to come.
His younger brother is more of a matter of projection. He is also considered to have an above average throwing arm and contact ability, but at just 17 years old, there is a lot of development left. Although he was not a top 30 prospect in his own right, the younger Mesa could become a solid prospect as well.
Although the exact dollar amounts have yet to be announced, it is reported that the elder Mesa received more than $5 Million, with the younger Mesa receiving close to $1 Million. The brothers have seemingly done all they can do to let their choice be known, from taking pictures with Mike Lowell to a picture of them in the Marlins clubhouse, holding a Cuban flag with their jerseys hanging in lockers in the backdrop.
These signings are a huge step for the Marlins. CEO Derek Jeter had wanted to make the Marlins a team that the local community could embrace, especially the Cuban population. Signing the Mesa’s, sons of one of the greatest stars in the history of Cuban baseball, certainly helps that goal. If the elder Mesa can be a star almost immediately, it could give the city that hometown hero that the Marlins have lacked since the passing of Jose Fernandez.
The Miami Marlins have reportedly signed the Mesa Brothers, landing the top international prospect and his intriguing younger brother. The Marlins offseason plans appear to be off to a great start.