2020-21 MLB International Reviews: New York Yankees

When their current 2020-21 international class opened this year on Jan. 15, the Yankees didn’t have anyone sign. The Yankees did sign Dominican shortstop Hans Montero on Jan. 21, then on Feb. 6 they signed Dominican outfielder Fidel Montero. One of the top players they were expected to sign, Venezuelan catcher Jesus Galiz, ended up signing with the Dodgers instead. The Yankees do have agreements lined up with other players—and the signing period is open until Dec. 15—but so far those players have not signed an official contract yet, so they aren’t included below. If and when any notable players do sign, we will go back and update this page with reports.

Top Of The Class

The top signing in the Yankees class is Hans Montero, a shortstop from the Dominican Republic who trained with Jaime Ramos. He’s a balanced, well-rounded shortstop with easy, efficient actions at the plate and in the field. An above-average runner, Montero is 5-foot-11, 160 pounds and moves around well at shortstop with smooth defense, the ability to read hops, good body control and a plus arm with good accuracy for his age. Montero has a simple, low-maintenance swing that’s direct to the ball with a line-drive, all-fields approach. His power is mostly to the gaps now, with a chance to grow into more impact when he gets stronger, though with probably a hit-over-power offensive profile long term.

Names To Know

Fidel Montero, OF, Dominican Republic: Montero (no relation to Hans Montero) stands out for his athletic, well-proportioned 6-foot-2 frame, with plus speed and a well above-average arm from center field. His game performance was up and down at big showcases in the Dominican Prospect League in 2019, but he has excellent bat speed, uses his lower half well and makes hard contact when he connects with a chance for plus raw power as he fills out. Montero trained with Patrick Guerrero.