Why Miami Marlins' international signing Kevin DeFrank has ace Upside

The Miami Marlins are one of five MLB franchises that have yet to commit a single dollar to a free agent this offseason. However, the normally quiet club has been oddly active. They have traded sudo-ace Jesus Luzardo for a shortstop prospect with Gold Glove upside, while also flipping slugger Jake Burger for a package of minor leaguers.

Miami has also found success in the international market. Adding a top-tier prospect in Andrew Salas is the crown jewel of their offseason. However, the franchise also landed right-handed pitcher Kevin Defrank as a supplementary star.

The 16-year-old Defrank has a long path to develop into a difference-making MLB pitcher. However, he has the raw stuff to crack the top 40 of MLB.com's international prospects.

The Dominican Republic star is already 6'4" and features a blistering 96mph max fastball velocity with a 60 grade (on a scale of 20-to-80). His changeup, which also has a 60 grade, is equally dangerous. Add a proficient slider, and Defrank has a three-pitch arsenal already catching MLB scouts' attention.

The Marlins' longstanding ability to identify and develop top-tier pitching also bodes well for Defrank's MLB future. The club already has stars like Sandy Alcantara (though his time in South Florida may be limited) and Eury Perez as co-aces. Assets like Thomas White, Noble Meyer, and Robby Snelling are also waiting in the club's minor league system.

Adding a high-upside arm like Defrank gives Miami another solid lottery ticket toward developing their next future ace. This signing is a win-win for both the Marlins and Defrank.