The top catching prospect in the 2027 international class, Sebastian Acuna, backed out of his verbal agreement with the Pittsburgh Pirates to sign with the New York Yankees, according to Wilber Sanchez on X. 

Sanchez reported that before backing out, Acuna had verbally agreed to sign with the Pirates for a $1.5 million bonus. 

SOURCE: The Yankees have reached a pre-agreement with Sebastián Acuña for a $1.6 million bonus, the top catcher in the 2027 class. Acuña possesses the power of Aaron Judge, the speed of Elly De La Cruz, and the defense of Yadier Molina.

The best Latin catcher is a Yankee 🔥 pic.twitter.com/6JYRMyPo2E

— Wilber Sánchez (@wilberdata) February 14, 2026

“Sebastian is known for his rare blend of speed and power for a catcher,” Sanchez wrote on X. “He’s posted a 6.4 time in the 60-yard dash, a 1.78 pop time, and a 105 mph exit velocity.” 

A big win for the Yankees’ new international scouting director 

Before landing Acuna, the Yankees had trouble targeting the top prospects for this year’s international signing period. 

The AL East club fired longtime international scouting director Donny Rowland earlier this offseason after he served 15 years in the position. Mario Garza was hired as the club’s new director of international scouting last month. 

Garza’s arrival already seems to be paying off dividends, as Acuna projects to be a future star. However, the teenager is at least half a decade away from making an impact at the Major League level. 

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