Marlins miss out on Cuban Prospect Sandy Gaston

By David Levin | Oct 27, 2018

MIAMI, FL - SEPTEMBER 20: Chief Executive Officer Derek Jeter of the Miami Marlins meets with members of the media prior to the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Marlins Park on September 20, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /

The Miami Marlins were not able to win the trifecta after signing Victor Victor Mesa and his brother Victor Mesa Jr. this week. Cuban pitching prospect Sandy Gaston signs with the Tampa Bay Rays.

What was hoped to be a winning trio of Cuban prospects will now be a duo with the Miami Marlins. Pitcher Sandy Gaston signed a deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, the ballclub announced this week. Victor Victor Mesa and Victor Mesa, Jr. were introduced as the newest Marlins players this past Monday at Marlins Park.

All three were part of an MLB showcase at Marlins Park Oct. 5. Gaston and the Mesas met with members of Miami’s front office, which included CEO Derek Jeter later that evening. Miami made trades in recent weeks to acquire as much international bonus pool money as they could to acquire the three prospects.

"Per a story by the Associated Press that appeared on ESPN.com, “The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a $2.61 million signing bonus with 16-year-old Cuban pitching prospect Sandy Gaston, pending a physical.”"

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Miami inked the two outfielders on Monday. It was reported the team agreed to a $5.25 million bonus with Victor Victor Mesa, 22, and a $1 million bonus with his 17-year-old brother, Victor Mesa Jr. Both are outfielders and now add depth to a young group of players who are still learning to play the game on the Major League level.

The Marlins have made it a point to become more active in the international baseball market. Unlike in years past, the front office will look at as many ays to improve the organization as possible.

"“Look, if that’s an advantage for us, we need to use it,” Jeter said. “And it is. A lot of the international players would love to come here and play in Miami. Any so-called advantage that you have, you have to use it. These players were very comfortable when they came here to Miami, and I know that they are looking forward to the day they can be here at the Major League level.”"

Miami’s management has not stated yet where either of the Mesas fit in the team’s 2019 plans. Victor Victor Mesa figures to be part of the group of players who get a long look in Spring Training when the team meets in Jupiter, Florida. Mesa, Jr. will begin the season in the minor leagues.

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