JUPITER, Fla. • Although he defected from Cuba in 2012, Aledmys Diaz has kept a close eye on the talent in his native island’s Series Nacional over the last five years. He watched televised games from afar as a fan, appreciating the deep talent.
The All-Star shortstop watched Jose Adolis Garcia’s televised games multiple times. He was more than willing to share his scouting report on the 2016 Serie Nacional Most Valuable Player when general manager John Mozeliak inquired. By then, however, the Cardinals already were deep into their pursuit of the young outfielder.
Actually, Diaz delivered his most important scouting report to Garcia, not about Garcia.