We’ve arrived at the middle of January, which marks the start of a new international prospect signing period. The Yankees often target top talent through international free agency (IFA), as they typically draft near the bottom of the MLB Draft and don’t have access to the top domestic prospects. The 2025 IFA period begins today and will run until December 15, 2025.
The IFA bonus pool system is complex, with teams facing deductions if they exceed the competitive balance tax or sign free agents who received qualifying offers. Teams that receive revenue sharing also gain additional pool money, and they can trade portions of their pool.
As the window opens, the Yankees have $6,261,000 available in IFA money. While the signing period has just begun, teams have been in discussions with international prospects for months, and many agreements are likely already in place. One potential complication involves Roki Sasaki, as the team that signs him may alter agreements with other international players. However, this won’t affect the Yankees, as they were ruled out of the Sasaki race earlier this week.
Last year, the Yankees signed outfielder Francisco Vilorio on Day 1, giving the 17-year-old $1.7 million. They also awarded significant bonuses to infielder Richard Matic and shortstop Dexter Peralta. Who will they sign this year? Stay tuned for updates as we track each new addition to the Yankees’ international prospects.
