Marco Paddy, the special assistant to the general manager for international operations at the Chicago White Sox, was quickly impressed by Eduardo Herrera.
During a video conference call, Paddy expressed his attraction to Herrera's abilities, including his strength, playing style, competitiveness, and skill as a hitter.
The White Sox have reached an agreement with the third baseman, as part of four international signings announced on Wednesday.
Herrera, aged 17, is ranked as the 11th top international prospect. This information comes from MLB Pipeline.He will receive a $1,800,000 signing bonus as part of his deal. Herrera, who hails from San Felipe, Venezuela, represented the Venezuelan U18 National Team at the age of 15.
According to Paddy, Herrera is a strong competitor who takes good care of his body and showed his capabilities while playing for the Venezuelan national team at a young age.
After thorough evaluation and personal acquaintance, the White Sox decided to bring Herrera into their organization.
Herrera, who is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 190 pounds, is a right-handed batter and thrower.
Paddy stated that they aggressively pursued Herrera due to his exceptional batting skills, which sets him apart from other power hitters.
The White Sox also added infielders Jurdrick Profar ($600,000) and Jesús Premoli ($550,000) and right-handed pitcher Jeziel Boekhoudt ($55,000).
Jurdrick Profar, a 16-year-old infielder, comes from Willemstad, Curaçao and is the brother of major leaguer Jurickson Profar. Similarly, Jesús Premoli also hails from Willemstad, Curaçao and is a 17-year-old right-handed pitcher.
Paddy observed that Jurdrick Profar is not similar to his brother, and he may develop into a bigger, stronger player with the ability to play multiple positions in the infield.
Furthermore, Premoli, originally a left-handed hitter as a catcher, now showcases his skills at third and first base. He is 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 215 pounds.
Additionally, Boekhoudt, a 17-year-old right-handed pitcher, is also 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 215 pounds.
More international signings are expected to be announced in the following weeks.
January 15 is the earliest date they can sign, but the process could take a few months, according to Paddy. Signing those kids would complete the job, but the plan is to sign more guys they have already mostly agreed on.
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