Red Sox class of 2024 international free agents highlighted by top-ranked outfielder

The international signing period opened Monday morning and the Boston Red Sox were quick to make a flurry of moves.

Headlining the club’s 2024 class is Vladimir Asencio, a young outfielder from the Dominican Republic. The Red Sox allocated $1 million to the 17-year-old, which is more than one-sixth of their entire international spending allotment.

Needless to say, Asencio represents the Red Sox’ biggest addition of the new signing period. Asencio was regarded as one of this cycle’s best pure hitters. MLB Pipeline’s evaluation of the teenager highlights his “sound bat path and slight uppercut stroke,” as well as an advanced tendency to hit to the opposite field.

Plus, at just 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds, he has plenty of room for development, which means his dominance at the plate should only increase going forward.

Red Sox International Signings 2024: Vladimir Asencio highlights class

Defensively, Asencio possesses the athleticism and necessary speed to play center field long-term while remaining a frequent threat to steal bases.

While Asencio is Boston’s top addition, they made several other moves with significant upside, signing a variety of pitchers, outfielders and infielders.

Of the group, five rank among Baseball America’s top 100 international free agents:

• Vladimir Asencio, outfielder, Dominican Republic (No. 37)
• Carlos Carrasquel, third baseman, Venezuela (No. 54)
• Edwin Brito, outfielder, Dominican Republic (No. 85)
• Dalvinson Reyes, right-handed pitcher, Dominican Republic (No. 89)
• Anderson Fermin, middle infielder/outfielder, Dominican Republic (No. 89)

Carrasquel is a big-bodied corner infielder, checking in at 6-foot-4. He’s a bat-first player who boasts significant power, though Baseball America has confidence that his arm strength could allow him to stick at third base.

Brito is a loud hitter who pulls the ball and possesses significant power. He has a tendency to strike out, but that’s a fair price to pay given he’s capable of producing some big hits. He plays modest defense and projects best as a left fielder or designated hitter.

Reyes is a physical specimen who is already 6-foot-5, and still growing. He throws a low-90s fastball, but Baseball America thinks he can add velocity while continuing to pair the heater with an effective changeup and curveball.

Fermin is a switch-hitter with modest offensive output. He projects as a glove-first player, using his defensive skills and impressive speed to remain in a middle infield or center field role long-term.

The Red Sox have varied success with previous international signings, though that’s typical for most MLB clubs. Some of their top finds include Xander Bogaerts and Rafael Devers, both of whom formed All-Star-caliber careers at the big league level.