Jays Sign LHP Jairo Labour

The Blue Jays continue to be aggressive in acquiring international talent under Alex Anthopoulos, as they signed16-year old left-handed pitcher Jairo Labour. He hails from the Dominican Republic , is already 6’4″ 185 lbs at only 16, and apparently has a good feel for breaking balls.In order to sign this big Latin lefty, the Jays had to part with $350,000.

Labour did not make the top 33 list of international FA bonuses predicted by Baseball America in 2010, which is available here. It’s apparent that he worked his way to becoming a signed prospect this off season by improving on his stuff, particularly his velocity which has increased to a reported 92 MPH. When combined with an advanced feel for breaking stuff at his age, it leads to an attractive package of tools.

Hopefully, Baseball America and others will expand on his arsenal at some point in 2011. For now, we’ll have to wait and see how well he does while likely suiting up for the DSL Blue Jays this summer.