The Rays surprised Thursday afternoon by signing international free agent outfielder Jhon Diaz, who had previously been connected with the New York Yankees.
Most of the top international prospects have deals lined up years in advance, and teams tend to secure their signatures formally as soon as the player is eligible at the start of the annual July 2 window. The Yankees overstepped their means, however, signing this year’s top prospect — Jasson Domingez — for $5.1 million. It is likely a failure to acquire the international cap space required to land the 16-year old’s signature that led him to sign with the Rays.