Major League Baseball's international free-agent signing period is set to begin, representing a valuable opportunity for teams to set the course for their futures. For those entrusted with overseeing the blueprints of a franchise, that influx of tantalizing talent has established July 2 as one of the most important dates on the calendar.
In contrast to the MLB Draft, which is held in June and involves the top domestic amateur players in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, the international free-agent signing period opens up the globe for big league clubs.
"There's only two ways to secure talent," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said.