Young Dominican Pirates

Dejan Kovacevic's report on the Pirates' expanding presence in Latin America is worth your time. We blather about this topic on the blog pretty often; here are the facts. The situation appears to have gone from good to bad to good again. Unfortunately, the Pirates are paying right now for that middle bad phase.

This passage names names:

Gayo's most expensive signing was Starlin Cespedes, a switch-hitting shortstop from the Dominican whom Gayo likens to a young Tony Fernandez. That was two years ago, and Cespedes turned 16 at the time. His bonus was $90,000 and, according to Gayo, he took less than he was offered by two other teams.

"I've been following that kid since he was 14," Gayo said. "He wanted to stay with us."

Another favorite signing cited by Gayo was first baseman Alex Vargas, also out of the Dominican. He is a left-handed power hitter who "really can rake," Gayo said, comparing his swing to that of David Ortiz.

"These guys, I'm telling you, are on par with the best I signed with Cleveland," Gayo said. "I realize that's a strong statement, but I mean it."

Rene Gayo was hired away from Cleveland. For the Tribe he signed 89 players; twelve (13%) made it to the majors. Jhonny Peralta and Willy Taveras were his signings.

I'm not sure how percentage compares to players drafted, but it must be similar. Say there's a one in four chance, then, that we'll see Cespedes or Vargas make it. Here's to hoping.

If the Pirates are smart, they'll pay Gayo whatever it takes to sign all the best he can. It can't be much longer that Latin America provides such superior value than the regular draft. The Pirates need to make the most of this opportunity while they can.