The Mariners announced the signings of Dominican righty Rigoberto Garcia and Venezuelan lefties Erick Gomez and Luis Pina today. The team also confirmed the signings of three other international prospects.
Vice president of international operations Bob Engle describes Garcia as “a tall young man who has strong arm and all the makings to become a true power pitcher.” Engle cites Garcia’s solid fastball and compares the 16-year-old to Mariners prospect Michael Pineda.
Gomez, 17, is a “poised young projection pitcher,” Engle says. Pina, 17 in December, has a “good feel for pitching,” though Engle expects him to have to adjust his delivery. The Mariners say they will continue to sign international prospects throughout the year.
