X

Have feedback / suggestions? Let us know!

MLB

5 International Players Who Could Make An Impact In MLB Next Season

1 of 11

5 International Players Who Could Make An Impact In MLB Next Season

Cuba v Netherlands - World Baseball Classic Second Round Pool 1
Getty Images

Most baseball fans just focus on free agents that are leaving teams in MLB. However, there are plenty of other free agents. Some key free agents from outside the country could make a huge impact in the majors this season. These five players are the most likely to make the biggest impact in 2015.

5. 2B Andy Ibanez

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks v Cuba - WBC 2013 Friendly
Getty Images

5. 2B Andy Ibanez

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks v Cuba - WBC 2013 Friendly
Getty Images

Country: Cuba

Ibanez isn't going to be a superstar in the major leagues, but he's solid in every phase of the game. He's a plus defender so he'll easily be able to move into the major league game up the middle with his glove. The Cuban second baseman could be a very solid role player for years to come.

4. 2B Hector Olivera

South Africa v Cuba - World Baseball Classic - Mexico City Day 1
Getty Images

4. 2B Hector Olivera

South Africa v Cuba - World Baseball Classic - Mexico City Day 1
Getty Images

Country: Cuba

Olivera doesn't have elite power, but he does have 15-20 home run potential. He will also hit for a very high average, which is huge for a second baseman in today's MLB. Not yet 30 years old, Olivera could make a big difference for a major league franchise.

3. LHP Hyeon-jong Yang

2014 Asian Games - Day 9
Getty Images

3. LHP Hyeon-jong Yang

2014 Asian Games - Day 9
Getty Images

Country: South Korea

Yang is seen as the top available international free agent pitcher this offseason and could be posted any day now. Once he is, there could be a bidding war for his services. The lefty projects as a No. 3 starter in the pros, something most teams in the league could use.

2. LHP Kwang-hyun Kim

World Baseball Classic- San Diego Day 3
Getty Images

2. LHP Kwang-hyun Kim

World Baseball Classic- San Diego Day 3
Getty Images

Country: South Korea

Kim has already been posted and the Padres won the bidding for him at a $2 million posting fee. Now that his Korean team has accepted those terms, the Padres can negotiate a contract with him. If San Diego can seal the deal, they will be getting a 26-year-old pitcher who throws strikes and will serve as a solid back end starter.

1. OF Yasmany Tomas

Chinese Taipei v Cuba - World Baseball Classic Second Round Pool 1
Getty Images

1. OF Yasmany Tomas

Chinese Taipei v Cuba - World Baseball Classic Second Round Pool 1
Getty Images

Country: Cuba

Tomas is easily the biggest impact international bat this season and that's why so many teams are interested in signing him. Tomas will hit for plenty of power and may get a deal similar to the one Jose Abreu got from the White Sox last season. Now teams have to hope he produces like the 2014 AL Rookie of the Year did.

Share Tweet