While rebuilding the Atlanta Braves' international scouting department was a stated priority when Alex Anthopoulos got hired, the results in international free agency have left a lot to be desired. While some useful players have been picked up along the way, a number of the players that the Braves have given hefty bonuses during Anthopoulos' tenure including Ambioris Tavarez, Diego Benitez, Douglas Glod, Luis Guanipa, and Jose Perdomo have either been slow to develop or have turned into complete busts. However, outfielder Diego Tornes may be changing that narrative for the better.
The Braves signed Tornes back in January to a hefty $2.5 million signing bonus and he was widely considered to be one of the top bats in his class. The 16 year-old Tornes was known as a switch-hitter who already had a strong approach at the plate and a 6'4 frame that looked extremely projectable. While it is very hard to predict how things will go with guys this young, he had all the physical characteristics needed to turn into a five-tool stud.
It is still early as Tornes only has a handful of games under his belt in the Dominican Summer League (DSL), but it is becoming clear as to why the Braves were so excited to land him.
Diego Tornes' early results should have Braves fans very excited (within reason)
When it comes to international free agents in the DSL, the results don't matter as much as you may think. The goal is to acclimate these kids to the routine of being a professional, getting their conditioning up to speed, and ratcheting up the level of competition a bit so teams can see what they have. However, you still like to see guys perform well there and Tornes is off to a great start.
Through 32 games so far in 2025, Tornes is slashing .279/.395/.402. While he has yet to homer which is something to keep an eye on as he grows into his body, there is no denying that he has some real speed as he has stolen 24 bases and already has five triples this season. Tornes is also already showing a knack for getting on base and understanding the strike zone, all of which is great news.
Again, Tornes' numbers in the DSL need to be taken with a grain of salt whether they are good or bad. However, what we are seeing is that he already is able to use his physical tools in games which is half the battle in baseball. The hit tool staying consistent as he gets into full season ball is the next box he needs to check. If Tornes does that while adding some strength to that frame of his, the Braves may have a monster on their hands finally.