Bold start: The Mariners are expanding their international pipeline, adding nine more signings and signaling a broader commitment to building depth across their minor leagues. And this is the part that’s easy to overlook: international signings continue to shape the future backbone of the organization.
The Seattle Mariners have announced the addition of nine international players to their minor league rosters, increasing their total to 14 international players signed since January. The team disclosed the moves in a Friday press release, aligning with Major League Baseball’s international signing period.
Industry context from CBS Sports indicates that roughly 30% of MLB players signed as international amateur free agents come through the International Player Portal, underscoring how pivotal these signings can be for long-term roster development.
Among the nine new signees, seven hail from Venezuela and two come from Mexico. Mariners’ Senior Director of International Scouting Frankie Thon Jr. commented on the development, saying, “We’re glad to be adding this level of talent to our minor league system.”
Breakdown by position and origin:
- Daniel Alana, C, Venezuela
- Santiago Pereira, C, Venezuela
- Edgardo Toro, INF/OF, Venezuela
- Fabian Gonzalez, INF/OF, Venezuela
- Cristian Alvarado, RHP, Mexico
- German Arvayo, RHP, Mexico
- Gabriel Hidalgo, RHP, Venezuela
- Carlos Martinez, RHP, Venezuela
- Adan Vallenilla, RHP, Venezuela
Additionally, five more players from the Dominican Republic joined in January, primarily outfielders with one infielder among them.
Important timeline note: the international signing period runs from January 15 to December 15 each year.
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