Yoan Moncada and other Cuban prospects currently unsigned

[Nate Colbert]

Moncada is a 19 year old switch-hitting 3B/SS who's interesting for several reasons, not only because of the talent level but because (unlike many of the other Cuban players) his signing would be subject to the international bonus pool rules and there's several high-spending clubs who'll be precluded from bidding on Moncada. Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com is reporting Moncada is scheduled to hold a showcase on Nov. 12 in Guatemala. Here's a recap of some of the comments from Sanchez and from an earlier article on Moncada from Ben Badler of BA:

• "...best teenager to leave Cuba since Jorge Soler, a player with exciting tools and dominance of the Cuban junior leagues on par with what Yasiel Puig did at the same age." (Badler)
• More upside than Rusney Castillo, who signed in August with the Red Sox for $73MM. (Badler)
• "...better than Cuban outfielder Yasmany Tomas [see below], who’s in the Dominican Republic but is still likely several months away from free agency." (Badler)
• "Scouts have called Moncada the next Jorge Soler, and his skills have been compared with those of Yasiel Puig at the same age." (Sanchez)
• The Cubs and Rangers exceeded their bonus pools during the previous signing period and are effectively precluded from bidding on Moncada. (Sanchez)
• Yankees, Red Sox and Rays have exceeded their bonus pools by more than 15% for the current signing period. If "unblocked" by the US government prior to June 15, those 3 clubs can sign him but will pay a 100% penalty to do. If unblocked after June 15, all 3 clubs will be unable to sign Moncada. (Sanchez)

Other Cubans currently unsigned:

Yasmany Tomas

The 24 year old corner OF with the power bat has a price tag (according to MLBTR) approaching 7 years and $100MM. Sanchez in a tweet last month mentioned Texas, Philly, San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle as having "strong interest". Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Jose Fernandez

A 26 year old 2B who defected just two weeks ago. Some reports say he's not a toolsy dude yet is playing at a high enough level that he could step into a major league job today. We'll see. High OBP guy who strikes out very, very little (reportedly just 10 whiffs in 314 ABs in the Cuban league last year). Haven't seen any scouting reports which would suggest he has the arm strength to make the move to 3B. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Hector Olivera

Another 2B and recent defector, Olivera is certainly not on the same level as Fernandez (much less Moncada and Tomas). For obvious reasons as he's already 29 and has a checkered injury history. The 2B has shown a good eye at the plate (more walks than strikeouts during his Cuban league career) and has above average power for a middle infielder.  Here's a Sept. article on him from Ben Badler. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

[roadrunner]

i would love for the Astros to go after this guy but based on hype and price tag it seems like the Dodgers will be a natural fit.

[Ron Brand]

Great stuff, Nate.

[Nate Colbert]

Left off one, the most recent defector:

Andy Ibanez

Left the island just a week ago (or prior to that but his leaving only very recently became known). The 3rd 2B on this list and at just 21 the only one likely to need some minor league seasoning. Like Moncada, he will be subject to the international bonus pool restrictions. Here's the Ben Badler article.

ETA:
And just as I was was writing this, a tweet from Badler indicates he just posted a new article on Cuban players in which he discusses some lesser names including RHP Jorge Despaigne, OF Dian Toscano, P Yoan Lopez and 3B Pavel Quesada. Despaigne and Lopez are international bonus pool players while Toscano and Quesada are exempt.

Badler also takes a contrary opinion and says those clubs subject to the 100% tax (Red Sox, et. al.) may not necessarily feel constrained by it. Since they're effectively restricted from signing any big names in the next two international signing periods (2015-2016 and 2016-2017), they may decide to shoot their wad and sign as many players as they can prior to July 1 even if it costs them twice as much compared to a non-penalized club.

[Nate Colbert]

Decided to consolidate and update the list as there are a few other names out there (man, it's been a Mariel boatlift of Cuban baseball players coming over this year--great to see):

Yoan Moncada

Moncada is a 19 year old switch-hitting 3B/SS who's interesting for several reasons, not only because of the talent level but because (unlike many of the other Cuban players) his signing would be subject to the international bonus pool rules and there's several high-spending clubs who'll be precluded from bidding on Moncada. Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com is reporting Moncada is scheduled to hold a showcase on Nov. 12 in Guatemala. Here's a recap of some of the comments from Sanchez and from an earlier article on Moncada from Ben Badler of BA:

• "...best teenager to leave Cuba since Jorge Soler, a player with exciting tools and dominance of the Cuban junior leagues on par with what Yasiel Puig did at the same age." (Badler)
• More upside than Rusney Castillo, who signed in August with the Red Sox for $73MM. (Badler)
• "...better than Cuban outfielder Yasmany Tomas [see below], who’s in the Dominican Republic but is still likely several months away from free agency." (Badler)
• "Scouts have called Moncada the next Jorge Soler, and his skills have been compared with those of Yasiel Puig at the same age." (Sanchez)
• The Cubs and Rangers exceeded their bonus pools during the previous signing period and are effectively precluded from bidding on Moncada. (Sanchez)
• Yankees, Red Sox and Rays have exceeded their bonus pools by more than 15% for the current signing period. If "unblocked" by the US government prior to June 15, those 3 clubs can sign him but will pay a 100% penalty to do. If unblocked after June 15, all 3 clubs will be unable to sign Moncada. (Sanchez)

Yasmany Tomas

The 24 year old corner OF with the power bat has a price tag (according to MLBTR) approaching 7 years and $100MM. Sanchez in a tweet last month mentioned Texas, Philly, San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle as having "strong interest". Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Jose Fernandez

A 26 year old 2B who defected just two weeks ago. Some reports say he's not a toolsy dude yet is playing at a high enough level that he could step into a major league job today. We'll see. High OBP guy who strikes out very, very little (reportedly just 10 whiffs in 314 ABs in the Cuban league last year). Haven't seen any scouting reports which would suggest he has the arm strength to make the move to 3B. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions. Badler has cautioned recently he hasn't actually seen confirmation that Hernandez is out of Cuba--may be in hiding still on the island or being punished for a previous defection attempt.

Hector Olivera

Another 2B and recent defector, Olivera is certainly not on the same level as Fernandez (much less Moncada and Tomas). For obvious reasons as he's already 29 and has a checkered injury history. The 2B has shown a good eye at the plate (more walks than strikeouts during his Cuban league career) and has above average power for a middle infielder.  Here's a Sept. article on him from Ben Badler. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.


Misael Silverio

Small (5'9") soft tossing lefty who defected in July of 2013 as his Cuban team was playing in the United States. Not sure what the delay was in having not been signed yet (other than perhaps the US government unblocking process). A bullpen role may be his best shot at the major league level. 25 years old. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Yozzen Cuesta

6'2" 220 pound 1B with power but reportedly not much else. The 25 year old was last mentioned putting on a showcase for scouts last August along with Silverio in Florida. And like Silverio, he's exempt from the international bonus pool restrictions.

Diosdany Castillo

Right handed reliever who escaped in August. 27 years old. Exempt from the international bonus pool restrictions.

Andy Ibanez

Left the island just a week ago (or prior to that but his leaving only very recently became known). The 3rd 2B on this list and at just 21 the only one likely to need some minor league seasoning. Like Moncada, he will be subject to the international bonus pool restrictions. Here's the Ben Badler article.

Dian Toscano and Pavel Quesada

OF and 3B, respectively. Both in their mid-20's and free agents not subject to the international bonus pool rules. Badler has more on each.

Jorge Despaigne and Yoan Lopez

Both RHPs, aged 23 and 21 respectively. See the Badler writeup for more details. Also both subject to international bonus pool restrictions.

[Nate Colbert]

Also wanted to mention that the Angels have apparently signed 20 year-old Cuban infielder Roberto Baldoquin to an $8MM deal. As Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com notes:

Baldoquin’s bonus would be the highest given to an international amateur player during the current international signing period, surpassing the $3.1 million signing bonus awarded to teenage shortstop Gilbert Lara, ranked No. 4 on MLB.com’s Top 30 International Prospects, by Brewers on July 10.

If all of this is true, then that puts LAA in the same camp as the Yankees, Red Sox and Rays--teams that have exceeded their bonus pools by more than 15% during the current signing period. Again, that means they effectively cannot sign any big bonus players during the next 2 years and have to pay a 100% tax on the overages in the current signing period. So that either discourages all 4 clubs from signing any more players in the current period or, if you believe Ben Badler's reasoning, encourages them to splurge even more on players right now even though the tax makes that extremely costly. Either way, clubs like the Astros should have quite a few decent players to choose from in the next two signing periods without having to compete with the big spenders like the Red Sox and Yankees (assuming the rumored loopholes don't make a joke of these rules).

[Nate Colbert]

BTW, in an under the radar signing back in September, the Astros did acquire their very own Cuban defector. Per the Baseball America transactions page (h/t WTHB), the club nabbed 18 year-old el lanzador derecho Rogelio Armenteros.

Not a whole lot on the guy except for this rather sketchy information (and if you're really desperate, you can check out his Facebook page).

[Nate Colbert]

More raves for Moncada from Badler:

• If Moncada were subject to the 2015 draft, he would be the favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick.
• The interest level among teams is huge, and with Moncada’s ability to play third base or second, the speed for center field and the offensive upside to go to an outfield corner if that’s where he fits best on a team, he would seemingly be a fit for just about any organization.

[Nate Colbert]

No surprise given that all 30 organizations will be present but Director of International Operations Oz Ocampo will be in Guatemala tomorrow for the Moncada showcase.

[Nate Colbert]

Passan (based on conversations with 2 GMs and 2 other officials) says Moncada will get 30-40MM which of course blows past everybody's bonus pool and puts his ultimate cost to the signing club (100% tax in effect) at 60-80MM. Not to mention being unable to sign any players (those subject to the int'l bonus pool restrictions) for more than 300K for the next 2 years.

Well shove a shiv in me...

Passan mentions the international draft in his article and Moncada may finally represent the tipping point.

[Lefty]

Well shove a shiv in me...

Passan mentions the international draft in his article and Moncada may finally represent the tipping point.

Damn. If he pans out, he's worth it, if not it's a disaster.  Glad I don't have to make that decision.

[Nate Colbert]

Damn. If he pans out, he's worth it, if not it's a disaster.  Glad I don't have to make that decision.

And the tax makes that calculation so much tougher. If it was 100% salary, at least you have a chance a recouping a portion of that via a future trade (offloading any remaining salary on to your trade partner, at least in theory). The tax immediately becomes a sunk cost that you can't get back.

[Reuben]

So a team would commit as much or more money (including the penalty tax) to this kid as the highest bidders gave Jose Abreu and Rusney Castillo? That's a bit hard to believe.

[Nate Colbert]

Kylie McDaniels' latest on Moncada.

[Nate Colbert]

One of the dirty little secrets of signing Latin American amateur players is that deals are often reached months in advance of the actual signing deadline. So a number of players and their buscones have already reached such handshake deals with MLB teams and are "off the market" even though they can't actually formally sign until July 2 of next year. So if Moncada gets cleared and is eligible to sign in the current period (2014-2015 which ends July 1), then any club wanting to sign him has all those deals blown up and some pissed off buscones on their hands. Badler with further details.

[Nate Colbert]

Siverio/Silverio signed a minor league deal with the Mariners.

Contract details per this tweet:

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  21s
Mariners signed 5'9/185, 25-year-old Cuban LHP Misael Siverio for a $275K bonus & assigned to AAA w/split deal: $508K in MLB, $120K in MILB.

[Nate Colbert]

Yasmany Tomas and the D-Backs have agreed on a 6-year $68.5MM deal with an opt-out after 4 years per Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.

Comparable to what the White Sox gave Abreu and three years younger, certainly on the face of it Arizona doesn't seem to have paid an outrageous price for Tomas.

[roadrunner]

I guess the Astros aren't even going to fake interest in the big free agents this year.

[Reuben]

I guess the Astros aren't even going to fake interest in the big free agents this year.

Tomas has been compared to Marlon Byrd. Is that what you want? And, depending how you define "fake" or "interest," they've demonstrated some form of one or the other towards Hanley Ramirez, David Robertson, as well as (depending on how you define "big")  Brett Andersen, Jason Hammel, maybe Andrew Miller, Kenta Maeda, etc.

I don't really give a shit whom they are publicly linked to, I just hope they actually sign some good players. From everything I've read about Tomas, I don't mind that they didn't join that bidding war.

[roadrunner]

Tomas has been compared to Marlon Byrd. Is that what you want? And, depending how you define "fake" or "interest," they've demonstrated some form of one or the other towards Hanley Ramirez, David Robertson, as well as (depending on how you define "big")  Brett Andersen, Jason Hammel, maybe Andrew Miller, Kenta Maeda, etc.

I don't really give a shit whom they are publicly linked to, I just hope they actually sign some good players. From everything I've read about Tomas, I don't mind that they didn't join that bidding war.

I didn't want him either, it was just a snarky comment.  Last year they actually made offers to Choo and Abreu but we haven't heard really anything this year other than some tire kicking.

[Nate Colbert]

The "other" Yoan (the Lopez one, not the Moncada one) seems to be attracting a decent amount of interest, says Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com. FUYankees, Brown Skirts, TooManyHipsters and B-Hacks all in the supposed mix.

[Nate Colbert]

OF Dian Toscano signed by Braves.

[chuck]

I wonder if Cubans will eventually be allowed to play abroad or if they will still have to defect if they want to play off the island.

[pots]

I wonder if Cubans will eventually be allowed to play abroad or if they will still have to defect if they want to play off the island.

Is this in reference to today's change in diplomatic policy towards Cuba?  Because it certainly would lead to that.

[Reuben]

Is this in reference to today's change in diplomatic policy towards Cuba?  Because it certainly would lead to that.

It's pretty clear that Selig and the other owners forced Obama to make this move; now they can institute the international draft and get all the Cubans for $6m or less instead of $100m or less.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel (‏@kileymcd) tweeted out today:

Yes. NYY & BOS are the heavy favorites. RT @NorbertoPaulino Have you heard anything on if the Red Sox are indeed in on Moncada?

[Nate Colbert]

RHP Yoan Lopez cleared to sign by feds while INF Hector Olivera will be showcasing his skills in the DR in two weeks.

[Nate Colbert]

RHP Yoan Lopez cleared to sign by feds...

Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com tweets citing a source that Lopez's signing bonus could exceed the $8MM the Angels handed out to Baldoquin as the highest amount paid to a Cuban "amateur" (i.e., those subject to the international bonus pool restrictions). Of course, if it does happen that record will be soon be eclipsed by whatever money the Yankees/Red Sox/et. al. throw at Moncada.

[Nate Colbert]

And Mr. Sanchez says Andy Ibanez (along with 4 other Cubans--LHP Ariel Miranda, SS Angel Fernandez, OF Gelkis Jimenez, and 1B Yasiel Mederos) to showcase himself this Friday in the DR. Also says this about him:

Ibanez, 21, is considered “a gamer” in international circles, and he has been compared to players such as Omar Infante, Miguel Cairo and Placido Polanco. The 5-foot-11, 195-pound infielder is fundamentally sound and has solid tools across the board, although he does not have one tool that blows scouts away.

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com tweets citing a source that Lopez's signing bonus could exceed the $8MM the Angels handed out to Baldoquin as the highest amount paid to a Cuban "amateur" (i.e., those subject to the international bonus pool restrictions). Of course, if it does happen that record will be soon be eclipsed by whatever money the Yankees/Red Sox/et. al. throw at Moncada.

Lopez signed by D-Backs for $8.25MM. Arizona pays tax this signing period and will be unable to sign players for more than $300K in next two signing periods.

[Nate Colbert]

Updated the list, including adding a few recent defectors:

Yoan Moncada

Moncada is a 19 year old switch-hitting 3B/SS who's interesting for several reasons, not only because of the talent level but because (unlike many of the other Cuban players) his signing would be subject to the international bonus pool rules and there's several high-spending clubs who'll be precluded from bidding on Moncada. Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com is reporting Moncada is scheduled to hold a showcase on Nov. 12 in Guatemala. Here's a recap of some of the comments from Sanchez and from an earlier article on Moncada from Ben Badler of BA:

• "...best teenager to leave Cuba since Jorge Soler, a player with exciting tools and dominance of the Cuban junior leagues on par with what Yasiel Puig did at the same age." (Badler)
• More upside than Rusney Castillo, who signed in August with the Red Sox for $73MM. (Badler)
• "...better than Cuban outfielder Yasmany Tomas [see below], who’s in the Dominican Republic but is still likely several months away from free agency." (Badler)
• "Scouts have called Moncada the next Jorge Soler, and his skills have been compared with those of Yasiel Puig at the same age." (Sanchez)
• The Cubs and Rangers exceeded their bonus pools during the previous signing period and are effectively precluded from bidding on Moncada. (Sanchez)
• Yankees, Red Sox and Rays have exceeded their bonus pools by more than 15% for the current signing period. If "unblocked" by the US government prior to June 15, those 3 clubs can sign him but will pay a 100% penalty to do. If unblocked after June 15, all 3 clubs will be unable to sign Moncada. (Sanchez)

Yasmany Tomas Signed

The 24 year old corner OF with the power bat has a price tag (according to MLBTR) approaching 7 years and $100MM. Sanchez in a tweet last month mentioned Texas, Philly, San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle as having "strong interest". Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Jose Fernandez

Originally believed to have defected but now thought to still be in Cuba. Some reports say he's not a toolsy dude yet is playing at a high enough level that he could step into a major league job today. We'll see. High OBP guy who strikes out very, very little (reportedly just 10 whiffs in 314 ABs in the Cuban league last year). Haven't seen any scouting reports which would suggest he has the arm strength to make the move to 3B. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Hector Olivera

Another 2B and recent defector, Olivera is certainly not on the same level as Fernandez (much less Moncada and Tomas). For obvious reasons as he's already 29 and has a checkered injury history. The 2B has shown a good eye at the plate (more walks than strikeouts during his Cuban league career) and has above average power for a middle infielder.  Here's a Sept. article on him from Ben Badler. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.


Misael Silverio Signed

Small (5'9") soft tossing lefty who defected in July of 2013 as his Cuban team was playing in the United States. Not sure what the delay was in having not been signed yet (other than perhaps the US government unblocking process). A bullpen role may be his best shot at the major league level. 25 years old. Exempt from international bonus pool restrictions.

Yozzen Cuesta

6'2" 220 pound 1B with power but reportedly not much else. The 25 year old was last mentioned putting on a showcase for scouts last August along with Silverio in Florida. And like Silverio, he's exempt from the international bonus pool restrictions.

Diosdany Castillo

Right handed reliever who escaped in August. 27 years old. Exempt from the international bonus pool restrictions.

Andy Ibanez

Left the island just a week ago (or prior to that but his leaving only very recently became known). The 3rd 2B on this list and at just 21 the only one likely to need some minor league seasoning. Like Moncada, he will be subject to the international bonus pool restrictions. Here's the Ben Badler article.

Dian Toscano Signed and Pavel Quesada

OF and 3B, respectively. Both in their mid-20's and free agents not subject to the international bonus pool rules. Badler has more on each.

Jorge Despaigne and Yoan Lopez Signed

Both RHPs, aged 23 and 21 respectively. See the Badler writeup for more details. Also both subject to international bonus pool restrictions.

Guillermo Heredia

Soon to be 24 year old CF and recent defector. Elite D but questionable bat, says Badler. Not subject to international bonus pool restrictions.

Lorenzo Quintana

25 year old catcher who like Heredia just defected. Not subject to international bonus pool restrictions but other than that haven't seen much written on this guy (at least in prospect terms).

[Nate Colbert]

A couple of recent Jeff Passan tweets:

One league source estimated Yoan Moncada could be a free agent as soon as two weeks from now should MLB square away its concerns with OFAC.*

Favorites: Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers. Moncada hasn’t ruled out Cubs, who can’t sign him until July 2 due to prior int’l spending penalties.

*Passan goes into further detail in this article describing how the recent Obama administration changes will impact the whole OFAC approval process.

[Nate Colbert]

In the "not exactly news" category:

@MikeFerrinSXM  2 hours ago
Manfred on @MLBNetworkRadio: “At some point…we’re gonna end up with a worldwide draft system."

[roadrunner]

I always knew it was a long shot, but I was really hoping Luhnow would make a run at Moncada.

[Reuben]

I always knew it was a long shot, but I was really hoping Luhnow would make a run at Moncada.

I wish I had a better understanding of whom Moncada compares to at this stage of his development. I've seen things along the lines of "best young Cuban since Jorge Soler"... well, Jorge Soler is a good-looking player who had a great 2014 in AA and AAA, but is he a guy you regret not throwing $80 million dollars at 3 years ago? If Moncada were in the 2015 draft, would he be a Harper/Strasburg-type lock to go #1? Would he go #1 if you combined the 2012-15 classes all into one?

It's just hard for me to imagine that, with the inherent bust rate of 19-year-olds, spending $80m on a signing bonus for this one teenager would be a sound investment. Maybe it's not realistic to think your alternative is to spend $8m apiece on 10 teenagers, but if you look at it from that basic standpoint, I just have a hard time seeing how it's smart to drop that much coin on one kid.

[Nate Colbert]

As their eligibility to sign becomes more and more imminent, based on what he's hearing Kylie McDaniel (bottom of the article) gives his latest estimates at what it will cost to sign the three highest profile players:

• Yoan Moncada $80MM ($40MM bonus plus $40MM tax)
• Andy Ibanez $16+MM ($8+MM bonus plus $8+MM tax)
• Hector Olivera $20-40MM (multiyear contract/no tax)

[roadrunner]

I wish I had a better understanding of whom Moncada compares to at this stage of his development. I've seen things along the lines of "best young Cuban since Jorge Soler"... well, Jorge Soler is a good-looking player who had a great 2014 in AA and AAA, but is he a guy you regret not throwing $80 million dollars at 3 years ago? If Moncada were in the 2015 draft, would he be a Harper/Strasburg-type lock to go #1? Would he go #1 if you combined the 2012-15 classes all into one?

It's just hard for me to imagine that, with the inherent bust rate of 19-year-olds, spending $80m on a signing bonus for this one teenager would be a sound investment. Maybe it's not realistic to think your alternative is to spend $8m apiece on 10 teenagers, but if you look at it from that basic standpoint, I just have a hard time seeing how it's smart to drop that much coin on one kid.

Every baseball investment carries a ton of risk.  Seeing guys like Cespedes, Puig, Abreu, etc make an impact and the comps Moncada is getting makes me think he would be worth it.  I doubt Luhnow has that kind of flexibility.

In general I wish the Astros were more of a player in the international market.  For all of the wheeling and dealing Luhnow has done during this 4-year rebuild there has been hardly any investment of any significance in the international market.

[Nate Colbert]

Wasn't aware of this until today but B-Ref, the best statistical website on the planet, has Cuban National Series stats on its website. They apparently just added info for the last two seasons but they actually have stats on the league going back decades. So if you want to compare how Yasiel Puig did in his age 17 season in the CNS to Yoan Moncada's age 17 season in the league, click away.

[Nate Colbert]

Signed and unsigned (including some new names in bold):

Signed:

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez-one of the few young decent Cuban pitching prospects, recently defected at Caribbean Series
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell-23 year-old mystery guy about which little is known

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira-recently defected at Caribbean Series, an older player not likely to have much prospect value
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Reuben]

Nate, just wanted to say thanks again for all your work here and on the Bus Ride forum. Great info and insight.

[moriartp]

Seconded. You've been killing it.

[Nate Colbert]

Left Baldoquin off that earlier list.

Signed:

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Adding a new player to the list:

Signed:

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez-18 year old with a Ramon Martinez comp who allegedly hit 98 on the gun recently
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Reuben]

Every baseball investment carries a ton of risk.  Seeing guys like Cespedes, Puig, Abreu, etc make an impact and the comps Moncada is getting makes me think he would be worth it.  I doubt Luhnow has that kind of flexibility.

In general I wish the Astros were more of a player in the international market.  For all of the wheeling and dealing Luhnow has done during this 4-year rebuild there has been hardly any investment of any significance in the international market.

One major difference is the $60-80m for Moncada would be all as a signing bonus (and tax). Not a contract. Depending how his arb years went he could cost an extra $40m or so for his first 6 years. Add to that the higher risk of a kid his age vs. someone like Abreu with a lengthy track-record of excellence, and it's just a whole different ball of wax, even if he does have the potential to be an even better player.

[Nate Colbert]

BA's Ben Badler after Hector Olivera's impressive showcase in the DR today:

Yet, on talent alone, Olivera was a better player than Castillo and Tomas when they were in Cuba. Olivera is 29 while [Rusney] Castillo is 27 and [Yasmany] Tomas 24, so that works against him, but Olivera is the same [age] as most major league free agents. But if I had my choice of one of those three players, assuming the team doctors give him a thumbs up, I would take Olivera over Castillo or Tomas. From talking with several scouts about it, I’m not alone in that opinion, either.

Per Badler, scout gossip says Olivera is asking for Castillo-level bucks ($12MM AAV). And though his primary experience is as a 2B, says several teams are looking at him as a 3B.

[Nate Colbert]

Jim Callis compares scouting grades on Moncada to Carlos Correa (and a few other top-rated middle infield prospects):

• Hitting: Advantage Correa (70 vs 60)
• Power: Advantage Correa (65 vs 60)
• Running: Advantage Moncada (50* vs 65)
• Throwing: Advantage Correa (70 vs 60)
• Fielding: Advantage Correa (55* vs 50)
• Overall: Advantage Correa (70 vs 65)

*Grades on Correa weren't used in a couple of categories (because other middle infield prospects ranked higher) but you can find all of his grades here.

[Nate Colbert]

To get some perspective on the evolving market for Cuban players, added signings for 2010-2104 when the Aroldis Chapman deal at the start of that period more or less marked the beginning of high dollar deals for defectors from the island (only listed are deals of at least $1MM during that time):

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alexander Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

More players have left the island according to Ben Badler, so updating the list:

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso-20 year old who per Badler hit .299/.436/.494 this past season in the CNS with 20 walks and 19 strikeouts.
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera-29 year old with a career .284/.342/.416 slash line in the CNS prior to 2014. Badler says he hit 319/.380/.469 this past year in Cuba with 13 walks and 15 strikeouts in 187 plate appearances.
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Another heretofore unknown name popping up to add to the list:

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Yoan Moncada
• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce-27 y/o who put up strong .325/.395/.468 career numbers in Cuba but those numbers were in decline the last 2 years he's shown as having played (2011 & 2012).
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Olivera bidding now at over $70MM?!?!?

[astrosfan76]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB 2m2 minutes ago

BREAKING - Source: Cuban INF prospect Yoan Moncada agrees with Red Sox on a deal in $30 million range. Check http://MLB.com .

Not that we were in on him, but take that one off the table.

[Nate Colbert]

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

A bit more on 20 year-old Rogelio Armenteros (from today's Drellich article on why the Astros weren't in on Moncada):

...who was signed on Sept. 15, 2014 by scout Alex Jacobs and went to the team’s instructional league. Reaching into the low 90s and carrying a four-pitch mix, Armenteros has a bulky but athletic build and could add velocity.

[Nate Colbert]

Olivera bidding now at over $70MM?!?!?

Well a rather large detour apparently just happened on the road to that $70MM (or $50MM or whatever).

[Nate Colbert]

Even Cubans the "experts" are barely familiar with are having millions of dollars thrown at them.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Hector Olivera
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

After having signed Olivera today, the Dodgers have spent $166MM over the last 3 years signing Cuban ballplayers. And since none of those signings impacted their international bonus pool, they can still spend jabillions come July 2 on any and all Dominican/Venezuelan players.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com with several more names of Cubans to keep an eye on.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Ben Badler of BA profiles a couple of more Cubans (here and here) who've left the island.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell

Unsigned-exempt:

• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com reports on 3 more players who have popped up on the radar (either having recently left the island or becoming eligible for signing):

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

The best pitching prospect in Cuba (or the best pitching prospect remaining in Cuba anyway) has left the island, ladies and gentleman.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• 2B Yoilan Serce
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Some relatively low-key Cuban signings over the last week or so:

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

BA says the most recent Serie Nacional ROY and GG-winning shortstop (but light with the bat) has left Cuba.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)[/b]

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[astrosfan76]

@MaxWildstein: Source: #Astros have signed Cuban RHP Yoanis Quiala to a minor-league deal, pending a physical. Quiala is a 21-year-old reliever. #MLB

RHP Yoanis Quiala is a power pitcher. Can hit 96-98 on gun. Not much secondary stuff. Supposedly a smaller deal, per source. #Astros #MLB

[Nate Colbert]

@MaxWildstein: Source: #Astros have signed Cuban RHP Yoanis Quiala to a minor-league deal, pending a physical. Quiala is a 21-year-old reliever. #MLB

RHP Yoanis Quiala is a power pitcher. Can hit 96-98 on gun. Not much secondary stuff. Supposedly a smaller deal, per source. #Astros #MLB

Given his age he's almost certainly subject to the bonus pool rules. And my guess is that's the reason why the Astros acquired that $700K in international slot value from the Orioles the other day.

Bit odd that Ben Badler/Kylie McDaniel/Jesse Sanchez hadn't previously reported on a Cuban player working out for clubs with that kind of speed on the gun.

[Knoxbanedoodle]

"Yoanis Quiala?"

National Zoo: "Sure, we can always use another."

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

"Yoanis Quiala?"

National Zoo: "Sure, we can always use another."

Perfect.

[Nate Colbert]

From his B-Ref page:

Yoanis (aka Yoanys) Quiala pitched one year in the Serie Nacional and that was at age 19 back in the 2012-2013 season. Had a 2.22 ERA in 52.2 IP, allowing 49 hits and 14 walks while whiffing 33.

[NeilT]

From his B-Ref page:

Yoanis (aka Yoanys) Quiala pitched one year in the Serie Nacional and that was at age 19 back in the 2012-2013 season. Had a 2.22 ERA in 52.2 IP, allowing 49 hits and 14 walks while whiffing 33.

And did it all on a diet of eucalyptus leaves.

[Nate Colbert]

A 19 year-old pitching prospect (see here) and a 27 year-old OF who was ranked the 16th-best player in Cuba (see here) have recently left la isla:

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Yadier Alvarez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez
• RHP Ronald Bolanos

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

The Astros signed their 3rd Cuban player in the last 9 months. The most recent signing was first noted here. The player in question, OF Alejandro Garcia, was described this way in a since-issued Astros press release:

"[Senior Scouting Advisor] Charlie Gonzalez did a tremendous job in identifying Alejandro early as a true center fielder with hitting ability," said [Director of Interntional Oz] Ocampo. "Offensively, Alejandro shows the ability to center the ball with consistency and hit for some power, with strong hand-eye coordination and very good hands. Alejandro is one of the fastest runners we've seen all year and a strong base-stealing threat. Defensively, Alejandro has a chance to be a plus defender due to his athleticism and plus-plus speed. Alejandro is a focused, determined player whose goal is to be an impact Major League player."

According to his B-Ref Page, the-now 24 year old Garcia played three seasons in the Serie Nacional from 2010-2012 where he batted .261/.330/.317 and was caught 13 times in 25 steal attempts. According to the PR, he was one of the youngest players in the league (perhaps he was, but I've seen many players that age or even several years younger playing in the SN). Like recent Cuban signee Yoanys Quiala, Garcia is being assigned to one of the DSL teams.

Luhnow was also quoted in the PR:

"We have scouted the top Cuban market aggressively over the past few years, including the major international tournaments and showcases, and we will continue to identify, evaluate, sign, and develop young Cuban talent capable of making an impact at the Major League Level."

In other Cuban player news, one of the top pitchers on the market was signed today by (of course) the Dodgers.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 2B Andy Ibanez
• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez
• RHP Ronald Bolanos

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Rangers plied the Cuban market yesterday.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• RHP Carlos Sierra
• OF Yusnier Diaz
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• 1B Lazaro Alonso
• RHP Jorge Despaigne
• 1B/3B Yosvani Bell
• LHP Cionel Perez
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez
• RHP Ronald Bolanos

Unsigned-exempt:

• INF Luis Yander La O Camacho aka "Luis Yander La O"
• RHP Yaisel Sierra
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• RHP Jorge Hernandez
• OF Alejandro Ortiz
• OF Guillermo Heredia
• SS Dainer Moreira
• INF/OF Osniel Madera
• 3B Pavel Quesada
• 1B Yozzen Cuesta
• RHP Diosdany Castillo
• C Lorenzo Quintana
• 2B Jose Fernandez

[Nate Colbert]

Although the Dodgers and Giants (and possibly Cubs) are thought to be in the lead to sign him, this mlb.com article notes the Astros were one of a handful of teams to have worked out Cuban OF Eddy Julio Martinez (and the top-rated July 2 prospect) privately.

Expected price north of $10MM, putting any team signing him (if they're not already) into the penalty box with 100% tax and limited signing ability next two years.

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  8 minutes ago
Source: Cuban RHP Carlos Sierra agreed to a deal with #Astros. Sierra is subject to int'l signing rules.

Previous writeup.

ETA:

That's the 4th Cuban player signing by the Astros in the last year.

[Nate Colbert]

Just updating for some recent signings (none involving the Astros). Note that in just the last 10 months the Dodgers have spent $176MM on Cuban players alone.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• OF Guillermo Heredia*
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

*Recently worked out for Astros

[Nate Colbert]

Would have been much bigger news had this happened a few years ago...

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  13 minutes ago
Brothers Yulieski Gourriel & Lourdes Gourriel Jr. reportedly defected and will be seeking MLB deals.

Still, two of the top names remaining (at least until now) in Cuba.

[roadrunner]

so can Yulieske sign somewhere before opening day?

[Nate Colbert]

so can Yulieske sign somewhere before opening day?

Has to establish residency in a country other than the US first (likely the DR or Haiti) and then be declared a free agent by MLB. While part of that process has been streamlined, I can't imagine it happening soon enough for Yulieski to be signed that quickly. Given that he's exempt from the bonus pool rules (and thus all 30 clubs will be able to bid on him), he'll be the subject of quite a bidding war that will take time to play out as well. I would think closer to the All-Star break would be a more realistic timeline.

Sidenote re the spelling of the last name: it's been "Gourriel" since just about forever but Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com says it was spelled "Gurriel" on their jerseys at the recent Carribean Series and that variation seems to be quickly catching on.

[Nate Colbert]

Ben Badler ‏@BenBadler  1 hour ago
Astros hosting an open showcase for Cuban RHP Vladimir Gutierrez in Kissimmee, FL on March 17. One of the better young Cuban arms available.

As indicated below, Gutierrez is subject to the bonus pool tax.



Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

The amount of the bonus paid to Astros signee Yoanis Quiala has now been reported so I've updated the table to reflect it.


Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus))
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

The Astros apparently have made a relatively big splash (for them, anyway) in the Cuban market, with a handshake agreement in place regarding 22-year old INF Anibal Sierra. ESPN is reporting the deal though I have yet to see any confirmation out of Ben Badler of BA. The bonus is reportedly $3.5MM and will be effective in the next signing period beginning July 2. Because the deal would be subject to the bonus pools, an equivalent tax will apply nearly doubling the signing cost. The Astros will be also be subject to restrictions on signing players in future years but that may all become moot depending on how the new CBA is structured. Sierra did not show up on any of the lists of top Cuban prospects still available so the $7MM cost to sign him makes it all the more interesting (head-scratching?). What limited information that shows up on Sierra says good field/no hit. Put up .238/.307/.298 numbers in three seasons in the CNS (2012-2014) playing a grand total of just 47 games at 2B and 26 games at SS over that period. Allegedly the brother of Carlos Sierra who was signed back in December.

Really would like to see more confirmation on this because the information reported so far doesn't quite add up.

ETA:
An unconfirmed report says the Astros have also signed OF/1B Norberto Castellano. Now 23, hit .249/.361/.311 in the Cuba National Series from 2012-2014 which would have been his age 19-21 seasons. Looks like he mostly DH'd in the 84 games he played during those 3 seasons.


Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$3.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellano (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

This from Ben Badler re Anibal Sierra:

"It’s surprising that the Astros would be willing to break their bonus pool to sign Sierra, who was not a standout player in Cuba. Sierra didn’t play much in Cuba’s Serie Nacional, but from watching him play there during his final season (2014-15), he didn’t have any tools that stood out, with below-average speed and occasional gap power at best. He did use the opposite field, but he had trouble making contact against fastballs in the strike zone and a tendency to chase sliders off the plate."

However, Badler does go on to say that since leaving Cuba his skills seem to have improved and will be able to stick at shortstop.

The $7MM effective cost to sign Sierra dwarfs the previous highs the Astros have paid to an international free agent.  The previous high of $2.6MM was given to OF Ariel Ovando in 2010. Ovando washed out as an outfielder and was last seen pitching in rookie ball in the Cubs organization (though over the offseason he was claimed by the Angels in the minor league portion of the Rule 5 draft). The 3rd highest international bonus in Astros' history was the $2.5MM given to 16 year old Dominican CF Gilbert Celestino last year.

[Travis]

You kind of hope that this signing is part of a larger outlay this summer for internationals, given that (1) Astros' draft spending will be down this year; and (2) this may be one of the last chances to spend huge internationally before a draft is instituted.

[Nate Colbert]

As I was going through the 2016 Astros Media Guide, I discovered one other Cuban signing that was never reported. Pitcher Michel Martinez was signed April 4, 2015. Age 21 at the time he was signed, the Astros stuck him in the DSL last year before bringing him stateside to pitch the last month of the GCL season. If his B-Ref page is correct, never actually pitched in the Cuban National Series. Added him to the list below.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$3.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellano (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

You kind of hope that this signing is part of a larger outlay this summer for internationals, given that (1) Astros' draft spending will be down this year; and (2) this may be one of the last chances to spend huge internationally before a draft is instituted.

In the last 18 months the Astros have signed more Cuban players than any club not named LAD (granted, they haven't spent anywhere near what the Dodgers have spent but then who has?). Is that just a coincidence or a strategy on their part because they feel the Cubans (even after all the signings of the last several years) still offer better value compared to the rest of the international market? If it's the latter, makes you wonder if a "go big" strategy on the international side starting July 2nd might involve targeting even more Cuban players. Just a thought.

(Just as a sidenote, the Astros Media Guide lists Charlie Gonzalez as having signed all the Cuban players. Gonzalez is of course the Astros senior scouting advisor and one of the Cardinals mafia that Luhnow brought with him, although Gonzalez came later in 2013.)

[astrosfan76]

In what will likely be his final time on the mound before he signs, 20-year-old Cuban righthander Vladimir Gutierrez showed mid-90s velocity Friday morning at an open showcase at the Phillies’ complex in Clearwater, Fla.

The Astros, who are planning to break their international bonus pool when the 2016-17 signing period opens on July 2, had the deepest crew of evaluators on hand, according to those in attendance. The Dodgers, who are over their current bonus pool, also had a strong presence at the event.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/international/astros-dodgers-show-strong-presence-at-vladimir-gutierrez-showcase/#jOztSay8i5AMO5ru.99

[Nate Colbert]

Saw this recent tweet from Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com and wanted to add the player to the list of signing possibilities below:

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  May 9
Add Johan Oviedo, 18, to list of prospects to watch. The 6-ft-6, 235-pound RHP has been 94-96 & touching 98 mph. He's eligible to sign #Cuba

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$3.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellano (Astros-minor league deal)

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• RHP Johan Oviedo
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  2 hours ago
Source: Cuban infielder Yulieski Gurriel has been declared a free agent & is free to sign with a team. He's considered ready for @mlb.

[MusicMan]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  2 hours ago
Source: Cuban infielder Yulieski Gurriel has been declared a free agent & is free to sign with a team. He's considered ready for @mlb.

Can he play 3b and can he catch a flight to STL?

[Nate Colbert]

Can he play 3b?

Yes.

and can he catch a flight to STL?

Only if there's a duffel bag with $50MM on it.

[Nate Colbert]

The Astros aren't the only ones shelling out big bucks for Cuban players about which there is little previously-disclosed public information. With the 2015-2016 int'l signing period closing on Wednesday (beginning a 2-week blackout period before the 2016-2017 signing period starts July 2), the Dodgers shelled out $2MM for 18-year old 1B/OF Yordan Alvarez. Which of course means their effective cost will be $4MM since they're in the penalty.

I also saw a report from a Cuban baseball writer that the Astros did in fact sign Norberto Castellanos (though he's listed on B-Ref as "Castellano"). He reported the signing bonus as $75K so we'll go with that for now.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM + equivalent tax)
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$3.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• OF Lazaro Armenteros
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• OF Jonatan Machado
• LHP Adrian Morejon
• OF Jorge Ona
• RHP Johan Oviedo
• LHP Cionel Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• 3B Yulieski Gurriel
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

"According to a source, the Astros, Giants and Yankees are also among the teams that have expressed interest in (Yulieski) Gurriel and could be in line for a private workout."

Link

(Article notes Mets and Dodgers apparently have had or will have private workouts as well.)

[pots]

32 year old Cuban star pictured with an Astros hat... though he did the same thing after a Mets workout 2 days ago. 

His stats last year are hard to believe.  Not the 500 avg or 873 slugging.   But 3 strikeouts in 224 plate appearances. 

[Nate Colbert]

Rosenthal puts on his spekalatin' hat:

"Perhaps the Astros could sign Gurriel, use him at third base and designated hitter later in the summer, then move him to left next season. Another possibility -- with both left fielder Colby Rasmus and center fielder Carlos Gomez potential free agents -- would be to move Bregman to the outfield next season, even though the Astros drafted him as a shortstop with the second pick in the 2015 draft."

[pots]

Rosenthal puts on his spekalatin' hat:

"Perhaps the Astros could sign Gurriel, use him at third base and designated hitter later in the summer, then move him to left next season. Another possibility -- with both left fielder Colby Rasmus and center fielder Carlos Gomez potential free agents -- would be to move Bregman to the outfield next season, even though the Astros drafted him as a shortstop with the second pick in the 2015 draft."

Certainly not going to come cheap.  I'd guess 4 year 60 million for a 31 year old that has never swung a bat in the majors.  But he might be an impact bat that costs 0 prospects. 

[juliogotay]

Certainly not going to come cheap.  I'd guess 4 year 60 million for a 31 year old that has never swung a bat in the majors.  But he might be an impact bat that costs 0 prospects.

Prospects has always been this management group's currency. Not sure I see that changing.

[Navin R Johnson]

On MLB Tonight the number they threw out was 4/48.   

[Nate Colbert]

Prospects has always been this management group's currency. Not sure I see that changing.

20% of the current roster were FA acquisitions--Feldman, Fister, Rasmus, Gregerson, Neshek. And that's not counting Sipp.

[pots]

On MLB Tonight the number they threw out was 4/48.

I read an article that kicked around 4/52 for him.  But I think the Mets drive that number up now.  Wright is likely out for the season. 

[pots]

Prospects has always been this management group's currency. Not sure I see that changing.

Annibal Sierra shows a break in the pattern. 

[Navin R Johnson]

The Astros are at the point they are going to have to pivot away from  prospects only mentality.   They are no longer going to have a huge chunk of allocation money and bunches of top 100 picks.

[moriartp]

The Astros are at the point they are going to have to pivot away from  prospects only mentality.   They are no longer going to have a huge chunk of allocation money and bunches of top 100 picks.

And signing Cuban pros (the ones exempt from the bonus pools) is a great way to add talent without penalties in the draft/IFA market. Gourriel is a perfect example of the kind of guy they should be looking to add. You want to improve the club without sacrificing the future? Here's your chance.

[juliogotay]

20% of the current roster were FA acquisitions--Feldman, Fister, Rasmus, Gregerson, Neshek. And that's not counting Sipp.

The angle I was coming from was that the Astros use prospects as trading pieces frequently. I believe that you took my comment as they build their team with prospects. I thought that you liked the deal with the Cuban because they wouldn't have to give up prospects as they would if they made a deadline trade. Sorry I wasn't clearer in opening statement.

[Reuben]

The angle I was coming from was that the Astros use prospects as trading pieces frequently. I believe that you took my comment as they build their team with prospects. I thought that you liked the deal with the Cuban because they wouldn't have to give up prospects as they would if they made a deadline trade. Sorry I wasn't clearer in opening statement.

Just because they've made a couple of deals that look like they gave up too much young talent, I wouldn't take that to mean they love doing it. I'm sure the idea of adding an impact player in the middle of a season without having to give up anybody holds enormous appeal to them. So yeah, I could see Gurriel at 3B, Valbuena/Marwin 1B, Reed/Gattis DH being an appealing thing for the last 2-3 months of 2016. They probably would prefer not to have to depend on Bregman adjusting to the majors in a pennant race.

[Nate Colbert]

Jim Bowden 1 hr ago
ESPN Senior Writer

Yulieski Gurriel has now had private workouts completed with all the teams that are still "in" on his free agent bidding including: Dodgers, Mets, Giants, Yankees and Astros.  He also has worked out for the Padres as first reported by Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.

[JimR]

Jim Bowden 1 hr ago
ESPN Senior Writer

Yulieski Gurriel has now had private workouts completed with all the teams that are still "in" on his free agent bidding including: Dodgers, Mets, Giants, Yankees and Astros.  He also has worked out for the Padres as first reported by Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.

What is the next step and timetable?

[juliogotay]

Jim Bowden 1 hr ago
ESPN Senior Writer

Yulieski Gurriel has now had private workouts completed with all the teams that are still "in" on his free agent bidding including: Dodgers, Mets, Giants, Yankees and Astros.  He also has worked out for the Padres as first reported by Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.

Wow, we're included with the big-boys on this one.

[Nate Colbert]

What is the next step and timetable?

He's eligible to sign immediately so presumably his agent has already been fielding offers. Once a signing occurs, he'll need time in the minors to shake the rust off. So perhaps in the majors a month from now, maybe?

[pots]

Can't help but think Bregman's and Teoscar's early success at AAA has taken the Astros out of the running.  I don't see enough at bats in August for both Bregman and Gurriel.  And Teoscar, at minimum, would be in the running for left field next year.  I assume Gurriel is going to sign with a team with a clear path to the majors this year.

[Reuben]

Can't help but think Bregman's and Teoscar's early success at AAA has taken the Astros out of the running.  I don't see enough at bats in August for both Bregman and Gurriel.  And Teoscar, at minimum, would be in the running for left field next year.  I assume Gurriel is going to sign with a team with a clear path to the majors this year.

Valbuena and Marwin could platoon at 1B, and depending how Reed does, you might need a 3B and a DH (Gattis is not deserving of the full-time DH role, to me).

Plus, I still think it's asking a lot to expect Bregman to come up and be a difference-maker in a pennant race so soon, all while playing an unfamiliar position.

That being said, I do agree it's way more likely another team signs Gurriel.

[toddthebod]

You could play Guriel at third this year, play Valbuena at first, and send Reed back for more seasoning in AAA.  Marwin plays everywhere when needed.

Valbuena is a free agent next year and I'm not sure that the Astros will want to pay the money to keep him. 

[WVastro]

I've really liked Valbuena's defense at third. Could Gurriel play first?

[toddthebod]

I haven't heard anything about Guriel playing first base.  I like Valbuena's defense at third as well.  But I don't think you want to risk having a player at first who has never done it before.  Valbuena has played first competently. 

[Nate Colbert]

I've really liked Valbuena's defense at third. Could Gurriel play first?

2B and 3B his only experience.

[Lefty]

I've really liked Valbuena's defense at third. Could Gurriel play first?

If you can play 3rd you can play first.

[Jacksonian]

I haven't heard anything about Guriel playing first base.  I like Valbuena's defense at third as well.  But I don't think you want to risk having a player at first who has never done it before.  Valbuena has played first competently.

I would just as soon see them promote Bregman.  Demote Reed.  Move Valbuena to first and let Bregman have third.

[Nate Colbert]

I would just as soon see them promote Bregman.  Demote Reed.  Move Valbuena to first and let Bregman have third.

You could still sign Gurriel in that scenario and use him as the DH for the rest of this season. Then put him at 3B and Bregman in LF next season.

[Jacksonian]

You could still sign Gurriel in that scenario and use him as the DH for the rest of this season. Then put him at 3B and Bregman in LF next season.

Having now reread this thread all the assumptions about Gurriel are predicated on the presumption he can hit major league pitching.  That's a huge presumption for an org like Houston.  They can't absorb a bust for 4 years and big money.  If his workout wasn't terrific I'd expect the Astros to drop out.

[HudsonHawk]

If you can play 3rd you can play first.

If you can hit, you can play 1B. 

[MusicMan]

I would just as soon see them promote Bregman.  Demote Reed.  Move Valbuena to first and let Bregman have third.

I'd rather demote Worth.

[juliogotay]

I'd rather demote Worth.

that would make more sense because Bregman plays the positions that Worth does.

[pots]

that would make more sense because Bregman plays the positions that Worth does.

Reed needs to play.  If Bregman is promoted there will not be enough at bats for him unless you plan on putting Marwin back into a backup roll and I don't see them doing that

[juliogotay]

Reed needs to play.  If Bregman is promoted there will not be enough at bats for him unless you plan on putting Marwin back into a backup roll and I don't see them doing that

We'll see.

[Navin R Johnson]

Is 3 of every 5 games adequate for Reed?  Cause that is easily doable with Bregman up.

4/5 days Bregman plays 3rd, 1/5 Valbuena plays.  1st, 2/5 Valbuena 1/5 Marwin, 2/5 Reed.  4/5 LF Rasmus, 1/5 Marwin. Catcher 3/5 Castro, 2/5 Gattis.  DH, 2/5 Gattis, 2/5 Reed, 1/5 Valbuena.

Bregman, 4/5. Valbuena, 4/5, Gattis, 4/5, Reed 3/5, Marwin 2/5.   

[pots]

Is 3 of every 5 games adequate for Reed?  Cause that is easily doable with Bregman up.

4/5 days Bregman plays 3rd, 1/5 Valbuena plays.  1st, 2/5 Valbuena 1/5 Marwin, 2/5 Reed.  4/5 LF Rasmus, 1/5 Marwin. Catcher 3/5 Castro, 2/5 Gattis.  DH, 2/5 Gattis, 2/5 Reed, 1/5 Valbuena.

Bregman, 4/5. Valbuena, 4/5, Gattis, 4/5, Reed 3/5, Marwin 2/5.

Marwin has been almost an everyday player.  So basically you are demoting him and sitting one of your hottest players in Valbuena every 5th day.  Just to keep Reed on board. 

[Reuben]

Marwin is really at his best as a super-utility guy. He's overexposed as an everyday starter, IMO.

[MusicMan]

Marwin is really at his best as a super-utility guy. He's overexposed as an everyday starter, IMO.

Absolutely, although I do value that he is the one line drive hitter in the lineup.

[Navin R Johnson]

Marwin has been almost an everyday player.  So basically you are demoting him and sitting one of your hottest players in Valbuena every 5th day.  Just to keep Reed on board. 

Im not doing anything, just illustrating how starts could be distributed.  I also highly doubt Valbuena keeps up this pace. 

[pots]

Marwin's playing time will decrease even if they send Reed down.  If Bregman comes up, he'll be playing most everyday.  That means your infield is pretty much locked in on a daily basis.  Valbuena, Altuve, Correa and Bregman.  Marwin will catch a start on the infield here and there, ocasional start in left and DH on occasion.   Worth got 7 plate appearances all of July so far.  Replacing Worth with Bregman will not be easy.  Replacing Reed with Bregman is much easier to do.  If they do keep Reed and send Worth down, then Bregman's ABs likely come from Gattis and Marwin.  And I just don't think they will want to upset the apple cart that much but I could be wrong. 

[hostros7]

Accordingly to MLB app, Astros signed Gurriel on a 5 yr, $47mm deal


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nate Colbert]

Accordingly to MLB app, Astros signed Gurriel on a 5 yr, $47mm deal

Excellent!

[Jacksonian]

Accordingly to MLB app, Astros signed Gurriel on a 5 yr, $47mm deal


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/189772122/astros-sign-cuban-star-yulieski-gurriel/

[Jacksonian]

If he can hit reasonably well and play 3b that sets up all sorts of possible roster altering scenarios.

[BizidyDizidy]

Seems strange given bregman, valbuena, gonzalez...

[Jacksonian]

Seems strange given bregman, valbuena, gonzalez...

If Bregman starts playing LF or CF for Fresno you'll have your answer.

[MusicMan]

Accordingly to MLB app, Astros signed Gurriel on a 5 yr, $47mm deal


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

To all those saying Crane is cheap:

STFU


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BizidyDizidy]

I'm breathlessly awaiting apology letters to match the screeds that were posted again and again in the early days. It turns out, they perfectly executed the plan they stated from the beginning. Who would've fucking thought?

[JimR]

I'm breathlessly awaiting apology letters to match the screeds that were posted again and again in the early days. It turns out, they perfectly executed the plan they stated from the beginning. Who would've fucking thought?

I am awaiting what comes next with the roster. This signing must be part of it.

[BizidyDizidy]

That too.

[Jacksonian]

I am awaiting what comes next with the roster. This signing must be part of it.

First he's got to get there.  He hasn't played in almost a year.  Some time in the minors should be next.  How he does there will be telling.

[hostros7]

Package Bregman in a deal for Archer (or some other aggressive "win now" move)? Or wait a year to see how gurriel, Reed, Bregman perform? Should be interesting to see how it plays out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JimR]

Package Bregman in a deal for Archer (or some other aggressive "win now" move)? Or wait a year to see how gurriel, Reed, Bregman perform? Should be interesting to see how it plays out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Do not, repeat, do not trade Bregman.

[MusicMan]

Do not, repeat, do not trade Bregman.

Seconded. Especially because no one available is worth it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BizidyDizidy]

Seconded. Especially because no one available is worth it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Would you move him for Sale?

[Nate Colbert]

Do not, repeat, do not trade Bregman.

Agreed.

[hostros7]

I'm not advocating it, just throwing out a few hypotheticals. This team needs SP and there isn't a FA option next year so a trade would have to be the path to getting one


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JimR]

Would you move him for Sale?

Probably. He is Randy Johnson.

[Nate Colbert]

Not that many people are gonna care about this aspect with all the focus on the immediate effects on the major league roster, but I would think this puts the Astros as one of the frontrunners when it comes time to sign Yuriel's brother Lourdes in October.

[JJxvi]

Luhnow seems to have repeatedly floated the idea of Bregman to OF eventually, so I think maybe they have considered this option and keeping Bregman.

[BizidyDizidy]

Could the intent be that he's the DH?

[Nate Colbert]

Could the intent be that he's the DH?

That's what I wrote above. You could still call Bregman up to play 3B this season and move him to left next year. Gurriel could play 3B in 2017.

[JimR]

That's what I wrote above. You could still call Bregman up to play 3B this season and move him to left next year. Gurriel could play 3B in 2017.

I love the roster building talented GMs do. This is going to be fun to watch.

[Uncle Charlie]

Wonder if there's a deal already in the works to clear space. Surely he'll play in the minors for part of July?

[Nate Colbert]

Wonder if there's a deal already in the works to clear space. Surely he'll play in the minors for part of July?

Yes.

[doyce7]

Wonder if there's a deal already in the works to clear space. Surely he'll play in the minors for part of July?

I imagine we'll see him in Houston around early to mid August

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

[juliogotay]

Do not, repeat, do not trade Bregman.

I agree.

[Nate Colbert]

Rosenthal reporting per his source the Astros plan to use Gurriel at 3B.

[JimR]

Rosenthal reporting per his source the Astros plan to use Gurriel at 3B.

Bregman to LF, I guess. Crowded OF right now.

[geezerdonk]

Rasmus to center, Gomez to bench or Springer to center, Rasmus to right, Gomez to bench.

[roadrunner]

Rasmus to center, Gomez to bench or Springer to center, Rasmus to right, Gomez to bench.

This.  Or trade Gomez.

[Jacksonian]

This.  Or trade Gomez.

No way Gomez is benched full-time.  Trade maybe but unlikely.  Why would a team want him?

[Nate Colbert]

Front loaded deal...

Jon Heyman ‏@JonHeyman  18 minutes ago
Gurriel deal with #astros is technically $47.5M for 4 1/2 years. 3.5M this year, then $14M, $12M, $10M and $8M

[Jacksonian]

Front loaded deal...

Jon Heyman ‏@JonHeyman  18 minutes ago
Gurriel deal with #astros is technically $47.5M for 4 1/2 years. 3.5M this year, then $14M, $12M, $10M and $8M

Like Feldman that would make it a more attractive possible trade later in the deal when the player is older.  An attempt to pay for present value.

[Nate Colbert]

Like Feldman that would make it a more attractive possible trade later in the deal when the player is older.  An attempt to pay for present value.

Yep.

[roadrunner]

No way Gomez is benched full-time.  Trade maybe but unlikely.  Why would a team want him?

Probably right.  I'm thinking of putting together a deal for Jimmy Nelson and throwing him in for fan appreciation there.

[juliogotay]

Like Feldman that would make it a more attractive possible trade later in the deal when the player is older.  An attempt to pay for present value.

And to keep more in reserve as Altuve, Springer, Correa get more expensive.

[DVauthrin]

This.  Or trade Gomez.

Or Rasmus in CF vs RHP, and Gomez in CF vs LHP. 

[JimR]

Rasmus to center, Gomez to bench or Springer to center, Rasmus to right, Gomez to bench.

Gomez is not going to the bench. Trade him? Sure.

[Lefty]

Not that many people are gonna care about this aspect with all the focus on the immediate effects on the major league roster, but I would think this puts the Astros as one of the frontrunners when it comes time to sign Yuriel's brother Lourdes in October.

This guy from Fangraphs thinks so

https://twitter.com/marchulet/status/754060398769364993

[Wynnable]

Sounds like Singleton, Moran, Tucker, Gomez, Feldman, Neshek, Fields ... lots of trade options ... though not sure those are the right pieces to pull off a front end of the rotation type of pitcher.

[juliogotay]

This guy from Fangraphs thinks so

https://twitter.com/marchulet/status/754060398769364993

So, what do we know about Lourdes? Except that he is a 22 year old OFer and maybe the better prize?

[Nate Colbert]

So, what do we know about Lourdes? Except that he is a 22 year old OFer and maybe the better prize?

BA gave him a young Ryan Zimmerman comp last year.

He also has played on the left side of the infield in addition to the more recent outfield experience.

[juliogotay]

BA gave him a young Ryan Zimmerman comp last year.

He also has played on the left side of the infield in addition to the more recent outfield experience.

Doesn't sound like an OFer

[Fynn]

McTaggart says Gurriel will probably play some left field as well as third.   If true, once Bregman comes up, filling out a roster will be even more challenging.

[austro]

I assume that Gurriel hits right-handed?

[Fynn]

I assume that Gurriel hits right-handed?

I saw a couple of clips on you-tube.  What I saw was hitting as a righty.

[Nate Colbert]

I assume that Gurriel hits right-handed?

Yes.

[Nate Colbert]

Notes from the news conference:

A work visa still needs to be obtained for Gurriel.

Corpus may be his first minors destination as he works the kinks out, says Luhnow (though he'll head to the Florida ST complex prior to that).

Luhnow "optimistic" he'll be playing for the Astros in August (though from what I can infer he thinks three weeks from now might be a tad too optimistic).

Astros worked him out in the outfield as well.

GM also says they'll "make a run" at Lourdes (as if they haven't already, I suspect).

Matt Duffy has been DFA'd to make room on the 40-man.

[Lefty]

"He watched the team last year and part of the reason he's glad to be coming here is that spirit of the team. The spirit they bring is the spirit of playing great baseball. He feels proud to be part of that group & to be part of a great club, makes him very proud."

Also said his nickname is "El Yuli", which is spanish for "The Yuli".

[MusicMan]

Also said his nickname is "El Yuli", which is spanish for "The Yuli".

THE NEEEEEEEENYO!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[das]

THE NEEEEEEEENYO!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Best SNL skit ever.

I've loved Valbuena's defense and very productive bat over the last 2.5 months. Given his history, it's probably safe to assume he's on a hot streak and it's not reasonable that he'll keep it up indefinately. You gotta think his trade value is about as high as it can possibly be right now. I'd hate to see him go though. He's been a real treat to watch this year.

[Nate Colbert]

Corpus may be his first minors destination as he works the kinks out, says Luhnow (though he'll head to the Florida ST complex prior to that).

FWIW, Gurriel has been added to the roster of the GCL club so perhaps he'll see some live game action with them while in Florida (once the work visa thing has been worked out) before moving on to the Hooks.

[Nate Colbert]

FWIW, Gurriel has been added to the roster of the GCL club so perhaps he'll see some live game action with them while in Florida (once the work visa thing has been worked out) before moving on to the Hooks.

"Once he obtains the work visa, Gurriel will likely play two or three games in the Gulf Coast League before he joins Class AA Corpus Christi for a brief stint. Around the middle of August appears a likely time frame for the 32-year-old's major league debut."

Link

[Nate Colbert]

If correct, that's a price that makes slightly more sense...

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  12 minutes ago
Astros are staying busy on int'l market. Source: HOU inked SS Anibal Sierra, 22, for $1.5M. He signed under int'l signing guidelines.

[Nate Colbert]

Yanio Perez is another one of those Cuban pop-up players, he's currently #10 on MLB.com's list of international prospects:

Perez has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects on the market, and interest in the infielder has grown since he became eligible to sign May 20. Scouts like Perez's tools and his power potential. Some scouts question his athleticism and how he handles third base now, but nobody questions his raw power and developing bat tool. Perez, who has been praised for his makeup and maturity, is also expected to be an above-average runner. The Padres, Astros, Rockies, Reds and Rangers are among the teams that have been linked to Perez.

Hit .259/.335/.328 in the Cuban National Series in 2013-2014 as an 18/19 year-old. Currently 21 and thus subject to the international signing pools.

[Nate Colbert]

Have updated this list for all the most recent signings. Dodgers have signed the most Cuban players over the period indicated with ten while the Astros are second having signed eight Cubans.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + partial tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM**)
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• INF/OF Randy Arozarena
• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• LHP Cionel Perez
• 3B Yanio Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[jbm]

I apologize for my ignorance, but this "penalty" for signing Sierra, is it just monetary, or does it prevent the Astros from international signings for the future?

Sorry if it is already discussed in here, but where does Sierra fit into the near future?  He's listed as a SS, he's 22 and he's worth a 1.5 mil bonus (plus more); therefore, I assume he's just not another signing.

[Nate Colbert]

I apologize for my ignorance, but this "penalty" for signing Sierra, is it just monetary, or does it prevent the Astros from international signings for the future?

Astros were already in the penalty for having exceeded their international signing pool (which was $2.2MM) by more than 15% due to the Freudis Nova, etc. signings. Other than the tax (which adds another $1.5MM to the cost to sign Sierra), no further penalty to the Astros.

Because they've exceeded their signing pool, the Astros are restricted from signing players for more than $300K for the next two years. However, with the new CBA coming into effect it's unclear just how those restrictions will transition over for the Astros and other clubs in the penalty.

[jbm]

Thanks, so there might be other expensive signings this year, while they still can?

[Nate Colbert]

Thanks, so there might be other expensive signings this year, while they still can?

Yes.

[Reuben]

Sorry if it is already discussed in here, but where does Sierra fit into the near future?  He's listed as a SS, he's 22 and he's worth a 1.5 mil bonus (plus more); therefore, I assume he's just not another signing.

I'm curious about this too. If the Astros do happen to trade Bregman, they will become very thin at SS except for a handful of A or lower guys (Arauz, the other Sierra, maybe Randy Cesar?). Perhaps Anibal could fill a gap at the upper levels.

[chuck]

I'm curious about this too. If the Astros do happen to trade Bregman, they will become very thin at SS except for a handful of A or lower guys (Arauz, the other Sierra, maybe Randy Cesar?). Perhaps Anibal could fill a gap at the upper levels.

The good news is that at least half the Fresno roster has experience at short.

[Nate Colbert]

Here's what Senior Scouting Advisor Charlie Gonzalez (who's been involved in all the Astros' Cuban signings) had to say about Sierra in today's press release:

"Anibal stood out to me after my first look in November 2015 in the Dominican Republic. Offensively, Anibal has an aggressive hitting approach with a quick leveraged swing, high contact ability, and average to solid-average raw power. He is a Major League caliber shortstop defender with a polished defensive tool set, solid arm, easy footwork, plus lateral range, and advanced knowledge of the position. Overall, Anibal has shown strong tools both offensively and defensively as one of the top Cuban amateur position players I've seen this year."

PR also noted that Sierra will be reporting to the Astros DR complex.

[Nate Colbert]

...they will become very thin at SS except for a handful of A or lower guys (Arauz, the other Sierra, maybe Randy Cesar?).

Did you mean Osvaldo Duarte rather than Randy Cesar?

[Reuben]

Did you mean Osvaldo Duarte rather than Randy Cesar?

No, but I did forget about Duarte. Is Cesar not really a SS, or just in your eyes not really a prospect?

[Nate Colbert]

No, but I did forget about Duarte. Is Cesar not really a SS, or just in your eyes not really a prospect?

Not really a SS.

[Nate Colbert]

The target date mentioned by Brownie on the broadcast tonight was the Cardinals series beginning Aug. 16...

Richard Justice ‏@richardjustice  9 hours ago
Astros hopeful Yulieski Gurriel will obtain work visa this week and be on track to make @MLB debut mid-August. Will play 3B/1B.

[Nate Colbert]

From Ben Badler:

Q: Do you think Lourdes will join his brother on the Astros? What kind of contract wll he command, and can he play CF?

A: I don’t think so. Or, I should say, Lourdes Jr.’s signing will be completely independent of his brother’s, and I don’t see a great fit for Lourdes Jr. in Houston, although I suppose I didn’t see a great fit for Yulieski either, so who knows, but they’re not tied to each other. For me, Gurriel’s best defensive spot is at third base; he’s a more natural infielder than he is an outfielder, and while his speed did get a little bit better his final season in Cuba, I didn’t see the outfield instincts in left field that would make me believe he could play center.

[Nate Colbert]

Updated for the Yordan Alvarez trade. Astros have now signed/acquired nine Cuban players in the last two years.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + partial tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• RHP Ronald Bolanos
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez
• LHP Cionel Perez
• 3B Yanio Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

Per various tweets, plan is now for Gurriel to go to Lancaster on Wednesday. Will "likely" head to CC after about a week (probably on the 9th when the Hooks return from a road trip).

[Nate Colbert]

In what will likely be his final time on the mound before he signs, 20-year-old Cuban righthander Vladimir Gutierrez showed mid-90s velocity Friday morning at an open showcase at the Phillies’ complex in Clearwater, Fla.

The Astros, who are planning to break their international bonus pool when the 2016-17 signing period opens on July 2, had the deepest crew of evaluators on hand, according to those in attendance. The Dodgers, who are over their current bonus pool, also had a strong presence at the event.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/international/astros-dodgers-show-strong-presence-at-vladimir-gutierrez-showcase/#jOztSay8i5AMO5ru.99

Still waiting for a team to bite on his asking price, the #3 rated international prospect (by MLB.com) Gutierrez has another workout scheduled in Miami on Aug. 17.

[Nate Colbert]

Pitcher Vladimir Gutierrez, who was heavily scouted by the Astros, signs with the Reds for $9.5MM (factoring in the penalty tax).

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• LHP Cionel Perez
• 3B Yanio Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

Lourdes Gurriel has a showcase scheduled for Sept. 14 in Panama City with allegedly "twenty or so" teams interested in him.

Link

[HudsonHawk]

Lourdes Gurriel has a showcase scheduled for Sept. 14 in Panama City with allegedly "twenty or so" teams interested in him.

Link

"Lourdes" is still a girl's name.

[Lefty]

"Lourdes" is still a girl's name.

If I thought you watched South Park that would be even funnier

[MusicMan]

Astros sign 20-year old LHP Cionel Perez

He is classified as an int'l amateur, mean ing their  $5.15M signing bonus will have a 100% tax, thus continuing to prove that Crane is a cheapskate 'neck.

[MrKnuckleball]

Astros sign 20-year old LHP Cionel Perez

He is classified as an int'l amateur, mean ing their  $5.15M signing bonus will have a 100% tax, thus continuing to prove that Crane is a cheapskate 'neck.

Comparisons to Hamels when he was at this stage, interesting.

[Nate Colbert]

With the inking of Perez, that makes ten Cuban players signed/acquired by the Astros in the last two years.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$5.15MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• 3B Yanio Perez
• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• OF Yadiel Hernandez
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

Comparisons to Hamels when he was at this stage, interesting.

Those kinda comps always make me cringe a bit but for those who might have missed the mlb.com article:

"...the 5-foot-11, 170-pounder has drawn some comparisons to Rangers lefty Cole Hamels when Hamels was at a similar stage in his development. Evaluators like Perez's athletic body, to which he has added about 25 pounds since leaving Cuba in May 2015. Perez's fastball sits 92-95 mph, with projections he could at some point hover between 94-97. He also throws a slider and changeup. He has the ceiling of a mid-rotation starter and the floor of a hard-throwing reliever."

For comparison, here's Ben Badler's take on Perez.

[Nate Colbert]

From today's report on the showcase:

"During the two-hour workout, Lourdes Jr. fielded balls and turned double plays at shortstop in front of 60 scouts. He then shifted to the outfield for fly balls and throws from center field. The workout included four rounds of batting practice and two more rounds of live pitching. Gurriel ran the 60-yard dash in 6.65 seconds. Scouts in attendance were impressed with Gurriel's physique and overall strength. They also noted good arm strength on defense. However, there is a belief is that he could use more at-bats against live pitching."

Also says he'll begin private workouts for teams soon.

[JimR]

I hope he is a lock for us.

[juliogotay]

I hope he is a lock for us.

And I hope he can hit like his brother. That guy is a line drive machine.

[geezerdonk]

Yuli lost his eski. Will Lou lose his rdes?

[Nate Colbert]

A couple of signings in the past day or so, neither of which involved the Astros. The other Gurriel and pitcher Norge Ruiz are the few remaining prizes in the pool of unsigned Cubans (absent a pop-up guy or a re-stocking by others leaving the island).

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$5.15MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr.
• INF Luis Yander La O

[Nate Colbert]

Eric Longenhagen ‏@longenhagen  53 minutes ago
Multiple sources telling me that Houston has voided their deal with Cuban pitching prospect Cionel Perez.

[Mike S.]

Yikes.  Wonder what that is all about, if true?

[Nate Colbert]

Yikes.  Wonder what that is all about, if true?

I'd be surprised if it was anything other than a failed physical.

[The Third Man]

Voided now? The player was signed in September. They are just getting around to the physical? I am not willing to give this owner the benefit of the doubt where payroll is concerned.

[Mike S.]

Who knows?  Does appear to be a medical issue, though:

https://twitter.com/keithlaw/status/791471237369397249

McTaggert provides some further context:

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/207240288/astros-void-deal-with-cuban-arm-cionel-perez/

[roadrunner]

I am not willing to give this owner the benefit of the doubt where payroll is concerned.

?

[juliogotay]

?

Crane is cheap, don't you know?

[das]

Crane is cheap, don't you know?

Right?  That type of unsupported bashing is tiresome and pedantic.  Unless it's FTC.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Lil Gurriel to Jays  7 years, $22 million.  Seems like a bargain.

[HudsonHawk]

Lil Gurriel to Jays  7 years, $22 million.  Seems like a bargain.

That's less than half of what I expected.  Wow.  Is there something we don't know?

[Nate Colbert]

That's less than half of what I expected.  Wow.  Is there something we don't know?

A bit less than I expected as well. The only thing I can think of is that beginning with the Rusney Castillo/Yasmany Tomas/Hector Olivera deals, teams began overvaluing the Cuban market and have been overpaying. All three of those guys received $60MM+ contracts and all are considered major flops. Although it didn't impact Yuli from getting a nice chunk of change (at least he unlike Lourdes was considered major league-ready), perhaps with this signing there's finally an indication of a market correction.

MLBTR also points out the some Cuban signees have a provision in their contracts that allows an opt-out into arbitration once they reach the requisite service time. If Lourdes has a similar clause in his deal, the $22MM becomes a floor and he'll be able to earn more in the latter years of arb eligibility.

[roadrunner]

I expect the noise about Shohei Otani to get louder in the Spring during the World Baseball Classic.  This guy deserves Bryce Harper-like hype.

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/208585722/mlb-waiting-for-posting-of-shohei-otani/

[Nate Colbert]

I expect the noise about Shohei Otani to get louder in the Spring during the World Baseball Classic.  This guy deserves Bryce Harper-like hype.

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/208585722/mlb-waiting-for-posting-of-shohei-otani/

Cabrera'd.

[Nate Colbert]

Jeff Passan: based on court records, 17 Cuban players paid a group of human smugglers a total of $8,888,644 (the gov't believes the eventual amount to have exceeded $15MM). Among the players listed were Jose Abreu, Leonys Martin, Adeiny Hechavarria and Dalier Hinojosa. Abreu alone apparently paid $6.4MM.

[Duman]

Wild theory here but I wonder if one of the reasons the price for Cuban players is dropping is they are not having to "reimburse" smuggling fees. 

I am sure the main reason is the bloom is off the rose but just got me thinking.  Always a dangerous thing.

[astrosfan76]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB 25m25 minutes ago

Source: Astros have signed Cuban LHP Cionel Perez, #4 on @MLB Top 30 Prospects list, to a $2M deal. @MLBPipeline

Astros get their man, anyway.  Whatever the issue was, it obviously wasn't a deal breaker.  Could just be structural concerns that raised flags about him. 

[Nate Colbert]

Just fixing this table for the revised signing bonus on Perez.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)

*since released
**plus a partial year component that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned-bonus pool tax:

• RHP Norge Ruiz
• 1B/3B Miguel Vargas

Unsigned-exempt:

• 2B Jose Fernandez
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia
• OF Urmani Guerra
• INF Luis Yander La O

[MusicMan]

Astros get their man, anyway.  Whatever the issue was, it obviously wasn't a deal breaker.  Could just be structural concerns that raised flags about him. 

New CBA may also have encouraged them to take the chance before the new international hard cap is in place.

[Nate Colbert]

New CBA may also have encouraged them to take the chance before the new international hard cap is in place.

Did the signing have to take place in this signing period rather than the next one (beginning July 2nd)? Yes, but that's because the the Astros were already in the penalty box and would have been restricted to paying him (or anyone) $300K come the next two signing periods. The hard cap really doesn't enter into it.

[Nate Colbert]

Perez and his agent obviously weren't happy about the situation and issued a statement today that Jesse Sanchez reported on in his article:

According to the statement from Perez, he is signing with the Astros now because he has a responsibility to provide for his family, and it would be irresponsible for him to put his family at further risk while "waiting for the conflicting language of the [Collective Bargaining Agreement] to be clarified between the players union and MLB." Perez said that he has no discomfort or current injury that led to the $3.15 million reduction in his deal, and that he had more lucrative offers from other clubs, specifically the Padres and Orioles. The statement correctly notes that the Astros are required to subject him to the Rule 5 Draft if the club does not put him on the 40-man roster after signing him for the second time. In the end, the likelihood of getting a spot on Houston's 40-man tipped the scales toward the Astros. An MLB official said a player cannot use the aforementioned rule as a way to get out of the international bonus pool eligibility.

I'm not sure about the CBA provision in dispute, but the Rule 5 draft provision being referred to is this one:

4. Any player on a minor league reserve list who has either been released or had his contract voided and then re-signs with the same MLB organization within one year is eligible for selection.

Link

Thus, Perez will be eligible for the 2017 Rule 5 draft unless protected on the 40-man roster which means that Houston will have to add him prior to December of next year.

[Duman]

BA had a very lengthy article on it last night. Does a good job of telling all sides of the story.

[Nate Colbert]

The Padres feasting in the Cuban market continues, with the inking of Michael Baez bringing dollars spent on those players in the current signing period to $46.5MM.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component and signing bonus that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Nate Colbert]

The A's and Padres (again!) with a couple of signings in recent days...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$44MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component and signing bonus that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Nate Colbert]

Just noting a couple of recent minor signings by the Dodgers and Rangers...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez ‏@JesseSanchezMLB  2 hours ago
Cuban LHP Osvaldo Hernandez, 18, declared FA & can sign. He's 92-94 mph. List of teams interested include SD, CIN, HOU, NYM, ATL, TEX, BOS.

[Nate Colbert]

Notes on some eligible (or soon to be eligible) Cuban players...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned

• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (age 18, currently eligible to sign, Astros mentioned as a possible interested team)
• RHP Elian Hernandez (age 19, eligible to sign March 16)
• OF Luis Robert (age 20, not yet cleared to sign)

Some eyebrow-raising quotes in this recent article on Luis Robert by Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com:

How good is Robert? One American League international scouting director described Robert as "the best player on the planet, and that's no exaggeration."

"[Japan's] Shohei Ohtani is the best international player out there and he's a different animal because he would be the ace of a staff and he can hit," one National League international scouting director said. "But Robert is up there. He's a five-tool guy that can be in the big leagues soon. He has to be No. 2 behind Ohtani. He's that good."

As noted in the article, Robert would need to be cleared to sign by June 15 or the Astros (among others) would not be eligible to sign him given the penalties going into effect July 2 which limits the club to signing players for no more than $300K. Also critical from Robert's standpoint as those hard cap rules on international signings go into effect on July 2 as well which could dramatically limit the size of his bonus.

[Nate Colbert]

Ben Badler of BA with his take on the Luis Robert derby:

Robert has submitted all his paperwork to the commissioner’s office already. Based on the timetable of when that happened and the recent pace of MLB clearing Cuban players, it seems likely that Robert will be able to sign before the 2016-17 international signing period closes on June 15. Most of the teams with the best chance to sign Robert are the ones that have already exceeded their pools. The Padres and Cardinals are drawing the most attention. The Astros could be in the mix. The Braves, Reds, Nationals and Athletics are also over their bonus pools. The team that comes up the most in discussions of where Robert might land, however, is the White Sox.

[Nate Colbert]

Not a surprise if you've been following reports elsewhere (such as the trial in Miami that Jose Abreu and others have been testifying at), but Lourdes Gurriel (and presumably Yulieski) is paying millions to his smugglers.

[Nate Colbert]

Although the Astros were mentioned earlier as having a possible interest, the Padres plunk down $5MM for 18-year old pitcher Osvaldo Hernandez and have now spent $80MM (holy shit!!!) in the current signing period on Cubans and other int'l players...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned

• RHP Elian Hernandez (age 19, eligible to sign March 16)
• OF Luis Robert (age 19, not yet cleared to sign)

[Nate Colbert]

The Cardinals, Astros, Reds, Padres and Athletics all had high-ranking team officials in attendance. Those teams have already exceeded their 2016-17 international bonus pools. The White Sox, who are not over their 2016-17 pool yet, have also been linked as a possible landing spot for Robert and had special assistant Marco Paddy there. The Astros and White Sox both have separate private workouts scheduled with Robert next week.

Ben Badler on the Luis Robert showcase

[Duman]

The Cardinals, Astros, Reds, Padres and Athletics all had high-ranking team officials in attendance. Those teams have already exceeded their 2016-17 international bonus pools. The White Sox, who are not over their 2016-17 pool yet, have also been linked as a possible landing spot for Robert and had special assistant Marco Paddy there. The Astros and White Sox both have separate private workouts scheduled with Robert next week.

Ben Badler on the Luis Robert showcase

Astros sign and then use as part of a trade with the Whitesox?

[Nate Colbert]

Astros sign and then use as part of a trade with the Whitesox?

AKA the Yordan Alvarez flip.

[Reuben]

AKA the Yordan Alvarez flip.

Except this would be more like the Yoan Moncada flip - spend $60m or so in signing bonus/penalty, then reap none of the benefits of the player you splurged on. It also would entirely negate the appealing "savings" of Quintana's below-market contract. I think the only reason the Red Sox/Dombrowski gave up Moncada is because a different GM had signed him. And, y'know, because they're filthy fucking rich, too.

[Nate Colbert]

Ken Rosenthal sez (per MLBTR):

The White Sox, Astros, Padres, Reds and Cardinals are the teams with the most interest in highly touted outfield prospect Luis Robert...

[Nate Colbert]

The Astros have signed Cuban pitcher Jesus Balaguer. The 23-year old pitched in the CNS as a reliever from 2012-2014 where he had some major control problems (59 walks in 68.2 IP).

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned

• RHP Elian Hernandez (age 19, eligible to sign since March 16)
• OF Luis Robert (age 19, not yet cleared to sign)

[Nate Colbert]

Latest on Luis Robert:

While nothing is finalized or certain yet, indications are that Major League Baseball will likely clear Robert to sign during the current 2016-17 signing period, which closes on June 15.

On the field, Robert had a private workout with the Astros at their complex in the Dominican Republic, where he hit a home run against live pitching. After that, Robert postponed workouts with other clubs, with Robert’s camp informing those teams that Robert had come down with the flu.

[das]

Latest on Luis Robert:

That's interesting. Is that code for:  he's made his decision?

[Nate Colbert]

That's interesting. Is that code for:  he's made his decision?

It is somewhat reminiscent of international prospects who suddenly disappear from the showcase circuit in the Dominican after agreeing on verbal deals with a particular team. Certainly it'll be interesting to see if he attends the upcoming workouts with the A's and Reds on Friday and next week.

[Reuben]

It is somewhat reminiscent of international prospects who suddenly disappear from the showcase circuit in the Dominican after agreeing on verbal deals with a particular team. Certainly it'll be interesting to see if he attends the upcoming workouts with the A's and Reds on Friday and next week.

Has he already worked out for the WhiSox? That's who keeps getting mentioned as the favorites.

[Nate Colbert]

Has he already worked out for the WhiSox?

That BA article Badler wrote (and linked to above) says: "The White Sox, Padres and Cardinals are among the other teams also expected to hold individual workouts with Robert."

That's who keeps getting mentioned as the favorites.

Badler made that statement back on March 2. Unless I missed something (always possible), I haven't seen him repeat that since nor did he do so in yesterday's article. And Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com (who besides Badler is the other recognized expert on international signings), reported on Luis Robert last Friday for MLB Network and did not mention the White Sox or any other team as favorites.

[MusicMan]

Rosenthal reports Robert has been cleared to sign, allowing teams to sign him before next year's hard cap.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Sanchez @JesseSanchezMLB  44 minutes ago
Source: Cuban OF prospect Luis Robert, 19, was declared a free agent today but will not be eligible to sign until May 20.

[Nate Colbert]

It is somewhat reminiscent of international prospects who suddenly disappear from the showcase circuit in the Dominican after agreeing on verbal deals with a particular team. Certainly it'll be interesting to see if he attends the upcoming workouts with the A's and Reds on Friday and next week.

Ben Badler said he did attend those private workouts with three more scheduled in the next few weeks (Cardinals, Padres, White Sox) plus another likely open showcase.

Link

Also, Heyman yesterday reported "someone" saying Robert has a $25MM offer already on the table.

Link

[Nate Colbert]

With less than 2 weeks until he becomes eligible to sign (May 20), the Astros, Reds, Athletics, Cardinals, Padres and White Sox have now all had their private showcases with Luis Robert notes Ben Badler.

[Nate Colbert]

FWIW (from the Klawchat yesterday):

Alex : Who do you think Robert signs with? Think he will have an unofficial deal in place before 20th?

Keith Law: I’ve heard Cardinals, and I’ve heard Astros, but I really don’t have any inside info.

[Nate Colbert]

From previously-linked to Heyman column today:

• The White Sox, Cardinals and Astros are considered a few of the leaders for Cuban outfielder Luis Robert – though some believe that ultimately the White Sox may turn their attention elsewhere (GM Rick Hahn declined to comment).
• Robert’s people are telling folks they’ve got more than $20 million, which jibes with the report in this space a few weeks ago that he “had $25 million in his pocket.”

If the latter report(s) is anywhere near true, then you're talking a $40-50MM total cost for Robert given the tax.


ETA:
Ben Badler thinks the Cardinals and White Sox are the favorites at this point.

[Reuben]

So the whole world will find out the sweepstakes winner on Saturday, is that how's it's gonna work? Will he have a whole TV special about it like LeBron?

[Nate Colbert]

Ben Badler thinks the Cardinals and White Sox are the favorites at this point.

So does Passan.

[Nate Colbert]

Ken Rosenthal  @Ken_Rosenthal 2m ago
Sources: #WhiteSox closing in on Luis Robert. Deal expected to be more than $25M.

[Reuben]

That's not chump change ($50-60m including penalties), but something the Astros could easily afford if they really thought this kid was a superstar.

[juliogotay]

Luhnow is really high on the 1B prospect Alvarez. Raved about him on radio pre-game today. Thinks he could become really big-time hitter with power.

[Nate Colbert]

Luhnow is really high on the 1B prospect Alvarez. Raved about him on radio pre-game today. Thinks he could become really big-time hitter with power.

Said he was kept back at EST to start the year before moving on to QC in order to work on lower body conditioning.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Ken Rosenthal  @Ken_Rosenthal 2m ago
Sources: #WhiteSox closing in on Luis Robert. Deal expected to be more than $25M.

Done deal. $26 Million. http://m.whitesox.mlb.com/news/article/232734588/white-sox-sign-cuban-outfielder-luis-robert/

[Nate Colbert]

Astros sign 20-year old RHP Elian Rodriguez for $2MM (a total of $4MM including the tax).

"Rodriguez has topped out at 97 mph, sitting in the low-to-mid 90s in short stints at workouts. Rodriguez throws two breaking balls, including a hard slider that’s his best secondary pitch at 84-88 mph and can miss bats, along with a solid upper-70s curveball and a mid-80s changeup that he hasn’t used much yet. While his command has been scattered at times, he did shown some signs of improvement with his strike-throwing at recent workouts."

Link

[juliogotay]

Astros sign 20-year old LHP Elian Rodriguez for $2MM (a total of $4MM including the tax).

"Rodriguez has topped out at 97 mph, sitting in the low-to-mid 90s in short stints at workouts. Rodriguez throws two breaking balls, including a hard slider that’s his best secondary pitch at 84-88 mph and can miss bats, along with a solid upper-70s curveball and a mid-80s changeup that he hasn’t used much yet. While his command has been scattered at times, he did shown some signs of improvement with his strike-throwing at recent workouts."

Link

Am wondering if having Gurriel on team helps with signing Cuban youngsters. Gurriel being a BFD in Cuba.

[Nate Colbert]

Updating this for the most recent signings...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

Unsigned

• SS Jose Israel Garcia*

*Astros reportedly have interest in him (according to Jon Heyman back on May 25, but the more reliable Ben Badler and Jesse Sanchez have said nothing on this)

[BlownRanger]

I believe Elian is right handed.

[Nate Colbert]

I believe Elian is right handed.

That's what I though too but the original draft of the Badler article had him as a lefty. That article has since been updated to reflect the correct handedness. Previous posts adjusted accordingly.

[Nate Colbert]

Am wondering if having Gurriel on team helps with signing Cuban youngsters. Gurriel being a BFD in Cuba.

Perhaps, but that Cuban pipeline certainly predates Gurriel. Luhnow and senior scouting advisor Charlie Gonzalez (who's based out of Miami) had already signed six Cuban players in 2015-2016 prior to the inking of Gurriel. And the Cuban connection for Luhnow/Gonzalez even goes back to their Cardinal days together with at least one Cuban player (a guy by the name of Ryde Rodriguez) signed in the 2007-2011 period.

[Nate Colbert]

And the Reds sign the shortstop that Heyman said the Astros had some interest in for a total cost of around $10MM...

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Jose Israel Garcia (Reds-$5MM bonus + equivalent tax)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Nate Colbert]

Another inking of a Cuban player (this time by the Cardinals) as teams rush to finalize their acquisitions by the end of the current signing period on June 15 before the new hard cap rules come into effect and/or teams go into the penalty effective July 2 when the 2017-2018 signing period begins:

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Jose Israel Garcia (Reds-$5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Hector Mendoza (Cardinals-$500K bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Nate Colbert]

One of the players signed by the Astros last year has been released. 1B/OF Norberto Castellanos was signed for a $75K bonus and only saw action in the DSL, hitting just .172 in 25 games.

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)*
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Jose Israel Garcia (Reds-$5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Hector Mendoza (Cardinals-$500K bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[Reuben]

I guess Norberto isn't the best Castellanos in professional baseball.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I guess Norberto isn't the best Castellanos in professional baseball.

But he probably is the best Norberto.

[Nate Colbert]

The final signing bonus (before tax) for Elian Rodriguez was $1.9MM rather than the $2MM as previously reported. Oz Ocampo had this to say today in the PR on the 20-year old 6'4" 205 lb Rodriguez:

"From seeing Elian Rodriguez in multiple game situations, what stands out the most is his combination of athleticism, power stuff, and overall pitchability and command. Elian is physical, athletic, and projectable with an impressive repertoire, including a 92-97 mph fastball and two power breaking balls. Elian also demonstrates a strong work ethic, aptitude and intelligence to improve in all areas of his game. Elian has all the attributes to develop into a power starter at the Major League level, and we are excited to bring him into the Astros system."

Senior Scouting Advisor Charlie Gonzalez was also quoted in the release:

"Elian is a right handed starter with an electric arm and a very high ceiling. He is still getting a feel for game situations and developing his pitchability, so pitching in a professional environment will help him blossom. The combination of his youth, delivery, and physicality makes for an exciting projection and a potential elite power arm."

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)*
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Jose Israel Garcia (Reds-$5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Hector Mendoza (Cardinals-$500K bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing

[JimR]

Pitchability?

[Knoxbanedoodle]

Pitchability?

Yes, indicating that the pitcher himself can be thrown for a strike in virtually any count.

[Andyzipp]

Pitchability?

I believe that is nonsensical moron for "ability to pitch".

[austro]

I believe that is nonsensical moron for "ability to pitch".

You have to have good pitchability if you're going to get some of those hitterish guys out.

[Nate Colbert]

Per Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com, Astros signed young Cuban shortstop for $300K. No indication he ever played in the CNS (he did play on Cuba's 16U World Cup team in 2015).

Signed (2010-2014):

• LHP Aroldis Chapman (Reds-6yr/$30.25MM)
• SS Adeiny Hechavarria (Blue Jays-4yr/$10MM)
• OF Leonys Martin (Rangers-5yr/$15.5MM)
• OF Yoenis Céspedes (Athletics-4yr/$36MM)
• LHP Gerardo Concepción (Cubs-5yr/$6MM)
• OF Jorge Soler (Cubs-9yr/$30MM)
• SS Aledmys Díaz (Cardinals-4yr/$8MM)
• OF Yasiel Puig (Dodgers-7yr/$42MM)
• LHP Omar Luis (Yankees-$4MM bonus)
• 1B Jose Abreu (White Sox-6yr/$68MM)
• SS Erisbel Arruebarrena (Dodgers-5yr/$25MM)
• OF Daniel Carbonell (Giants-4yr/$1.4MM)
• OF Rusney Castillo (Red Sox-7yr/$72.5MM)
• RHP Leandro Linares (Indians-$950K bonus)
• RHP Miguel Alfredo González (Phillies-3yr/$12MM)
• INF/OF Alex Guerrero (Dodgers-4yr/$28MM)
• RHP Dalier Hinojosa (Red Sox-$4.25MM bonus)
• RHP Raisel Iglesias (Reds-7yr/$27MM)
• INF Yandy Diaz (Indians-$300K bonus)

Signed (2015):

• 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas (Diamondbacks-6yr/$68.5MM)
• 2B Hector Olivera (Dodgers-6yr/$62.5MM)
• INF/OF Yoan Moncada (Red Sox-$31.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Yoan Lopez (Diamondbacks-$8.27MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF Roberto Baldoquin (Angels-$8MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Pablo Millan Fernandez (Dodgers-$8MM bonus)
• OF Dian Toscano (Braves-4yr/$6MM)
• LHP Misael Siverio (Mariners-minor league deal)
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros (Astros-minor league deal)
• RHP Michel Martinez (Astros-minor league deal)*
• OF Dayron Varona (Rays-minor league deal)
• OF Yoilan Cerse (Red Sox-minor league deal)
• C Lednier Ricardo (Mets-minor league deal)
• OF Pedro Marquez (Diamondbacks-$160K bonus)
• LHP Ariel Miranda (Orioles-minor league deal)
• 1B Yaisel Mederos  (Orioles-$100K bonus)
• RHP Yoanis Quiala (Astros-$794K bonus)
• OF Alejandro Garcia (Astros-$750K bonus)
• RHP Yadier Alvarez (Dodgers-$16MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Andy Ibanez (Rangers-$1.6MM bonus)
• OF Eddy Julio Martinez (Cubs-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• 2B Omar Estevez (Dodgers-$6MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yusniel Diaz (Dodgers-$15.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Carlos Sierra (Astros-minor league deal)

Signed (2016):

• RHP Yaisel Sierra (Dodgers-6 yr/$30MM)
• OF Guillermo Heredia (Mariners-$500K bonus)
• RHP Carlos Portuondo (Braves-$990K bonus)
• OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)*
• OF/1B Yordan Alvarez (Dodgers-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)***
• SS Alfredo Rodriguez (Reds-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Lazaro Armenteros (Athletics-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jonatan Machado (Cardinals-$2.3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Adrian Morejon (Padres-$11MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Jorge Ona (Padres-$7MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Johan Oviedo (Cardinals-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Alexei Bell (Rangers-minor league deal)
• INF Yulieski Gurriel (Astros-4 yr/$45.6MM)**
• INF Anibal Sierra (Astros-$1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• INF/OF Randy Arozarena (Cardinals-$1.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Ronald Bolanos (Padres-$2.25MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Vladimir Gutierrez (Reds-$4.75MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Cionel Perez (Astros-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• OF Yadiel Hernandez (Nationals-$200K bonus)
• 3B Yanio Perez (Rangers-$1.1MM bonus)
• INF/OF Lourdes Gurriel, Jr. (Blue Jays-7 yr/$22MM)
• RHP Michael Baez (Padres-$3MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• LHP Ramon Ernesto Perez Favier (Padres-$300K bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Norge Ruiz (A's-$2MM bonus + equivalent tax)

Signed (2017):

• INF Luis Yander La O (Rangers-$110K bonus)
• 2B Jose Miguel Fernandez (Dodgers-$200K bonus)
• OF Jose Adolis Garcia (Cardinals-$2.5MM bonus)
• SS Luis Valdes (Tigers-minor league deal)
• LHP Osvaldo Hernandez (Padres-$2.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Jesus Balaguer (Astros-minor league deal)
• OF/1B Ernesto Martinez, Jr. (Brewers-$800K bonus)
• OF Luis Robert (White Sox-$26MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Elian Rodriguez (Astros-$1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• SS Jose Israel Garcia (Reds-$5MM bonus + equivalent tax)
• RHP Hector Mendoza (Cardinals-$500K bonus)
• SS Rolando Espinosa (Astros-$300K bonus)

*since released
**plus a partial year component for 2016 that brought the total contract to $47.5MM
***traded to Astros two months after signing