The Atlanta Braves maintain their forward-thinking approach by signing 17-year-old phenom Jose Perdomo to a record $5 million bonus, the largest ever for a Venezuelan-born international player.
This technique is consistent with the Braves’ policy of retaining young, potential players through long-term agreements. Alex Anthopoulos, President of Baseball Operations, has excelled at this technique, allowing for the development of one of baseball’s deepest lineups.
perdomo, a highly-coveted infielder, stands out in the 2024 international class due to strong contact skills and improved defense at shortstop.
Poised to shine
Despite currently having the 25th-ranked farm system, Perdomo‘s addition could enhance it. Idolizing Ronald Acuna Jr., the 2023 NL MVP, adds intrigue to Perdomo‘s signing, hinting at a potential mentorship.
“He had a big showcase side-by-side with Ethan Salas, prospect with the San Diego Padres, and the competition was well above their talent levels. They were throwing pitchers that had been in AA and AAA – 97, 96 MPH fastballs, hard breaking balls.
“And with our whole process, I think that’s where we were kind of blown away with the adjustments he was making and the performance, and we said this is the guy we have to go after.”
While the teenager’s journey with the Braves is in its early stages, his signing underscores Atlanta’s commitment to building a strong future under Anthopoulos’ leadership.
“Perdomo, first of all, I think the most important thing to talk about here is his bat,” Braves Latin America Scout Jonathan Cruz noted.
“Obviously, these kids are very young. We think the hardest thing to teach, if you can teach at all is to hit. That’s his calling card.
