Last June saw Major League Baseball put a complete and total stop on signing players that were already under control in Mexico (which was nearly every player). There were some real concerns about fraud that had allegedly been taking place within the league.

Under the previous rules when a Major League Baseball signed a player from Mexico the team would pay money to the Mexican team, who would keep up to 75% of the money, and then the remaining would go to the player. Major League Baseball, though, was concerned that some of the teams in Mexico were not reporting the correct amount – thus keeping more of the money. When it comes to how that money applies to the “bonus pool” that each team is allowed to spend, only the part that went to the player counted previously.

Things are changing, now. The rules are set up similar to that of how things work for players that are “posted” from Japan. The player will get the full bonus from the Major League Baseball team. They will then pay a 35% release fee, based on the bonus paid to the player. The bonus will still count towards the signing pool money. The release fee will not.

Players from Mexico fall into the same categories as those from other leagues around the world. If a player is at least 25 and has six or more professional seasons then they are exempt from counting towards the pool allotment. Teams will still need to pay a release fee on these players, but the fee is down to 15% of the contract.

The Cincinnati Reds have had their share of signings out of Mexico over the years. The most successful one in recent memory is that of Sebastian Elizalde, who topped out in Triple-A with the team. After returning to Mexico last season, he’s back with the Reds this year.

Here’s the list of other players signed out of Mexico by the Cincinnati Reds that are currently in the organization:

Daniel De La Fuente – Right-handed pitcher

Rafael Franco – Outfielder

Carlos Machorro – Right-handed pitcher

Adrian Rodriguez – Right-handed pitcher

Victor Ruiz – Catcher

Jose Valenzuela – Right-handed pitcher