International Signings: Blue Jays, Pirates, Athletics

This year’s July 2 signing period opened yesterday, and teams got started immediately with a number of significant contracts on the first day of deal-making. The action continues today as the Twins and Indians have already signed players. We’ll keep track of other noteworthy deals right here with the latest updates up top: 

• The Astros agreed to terms on contracts with outfielder Luis Payano, shortstop Kristian Trompiz, and catcher Victor Tavarez, the team announced. Terms of the deals were not disclosed.
• Dominican shortstop Richard Urena has signed with the Blue Jays, writes Ben Badler of Baseball America.  The 16-year-old is ranked as the No. 13 international prospect by Baseball America and projects to stick at shortstop.
• The Pirates signed Dominican third baseman Julio Delacruz for $700K, Ben Badler of Baseball America reports. Baseball America notes that the 16-year-old has an impressive feel for hitting from the right side. "We are very excited to have signed Julio Delacruz who is, in our estimation, the best pure hitter available in Latin America this season,” director of Latin American scouting Rene Gayo said in a statement from the team.
• The Athletics signed Dominican outfielder Luis Barrera for $450K, Badler reports. The 16-year-old Barrera has a smooth left-handed swing and profiles at first base or in left field.