Red Sox Remain Interested in Cuban Prospect, Jorge Soler

Now that Yoenis Cespedes is officially off the market, the next big Cuban defector to reach free-agency is set to once again bring a flurry of activity.  Jorge Soler, the 19-year old phenom from Cuba is already attracting many of the big spending clubs and the Red Sox are said to be on that list.

Soler a 6-foot-3, 205 pound power hitting outfielder has been compared to the Marlins star outfielder, Mike Stanton.  Soler has applied for residency in the Dominican Republic, the first step in becoming eligible for MLB free-agency.

The Yankees, White Sox, Blue Jays, Phillies, Marlins, Orioles and Cubs are all said to be interested in Soler, something that will bode well for the youngster as he could see his price tag increase if a bidding war ensues.

The Cubs were reported to have a deal worth $28 million in place for Soler, but a source for MLB.com says that is false.

Ken Rosenthal reports that Nationals GM, Mike Rizzo expects Soler to land a deal in the neighbourhood of $15 million, comparable to what the Rangers gave Cuban outfielder Leonys Martin.

As mentioned, Soler is being compared to Mike Stanton of the Miami Marlins, but as Rosenthal reports, Soler doesn’t run as well as Stanton.  Rosenthal goes on to say that this could result in Soler ending up at first base.  Something that could deter the Red Sox from making an aggressive push for the Cuban star.

At just 19-years of age, Soler would bring forth what appears to be a solid package of power and outfield ability highlighted by a young body that could be major league ready in a couple of years.  He could be a potential replacement for Jacoby Ellsbury, should the Red Sox and Scott Boras not agree to long-term deal. It’s painful to think about I know, but it is reality.

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