PROSPECTS WORK OUT FOR MLB SCOUTS IN MONTERREY

Scouts from 25 Major League Baseball organizations gathered in Monterrey over the weekend for an opportunity look over 66 of Mexico’s top young prospects.Mexican League president Plinio Escalante and MLB Director of Baseball Operations Kim Ng were also in attendance at Estadio Monterrey, home of the LMB Sultanes.

The two-day Monterrey Showcase opened Friday as players were clocked in the 60-yard-dash and took part in a number of defensive drills before capping the day off with game-situation batting practice.  Inclement weather on Saturday washed out a scheduled doubleheader, but pitchers were able to use a bullpen session to show off their arms.  One hurler who raised an eyebrow or two was 15-year-old Ernesto Hidrogo of Saltillo, who impressed scouts with his velocity during Friday’s session.

Unlike most countries, rights to promising young Mexican ballplayers are typically assigned to Mexican League organizations at an early age, meaning MLB teams must first negotiate with their counterparts south of the border to be able to talk contract with Mexican prospects rather than selecting them in the International Draft.