The Kansas City Royals were among the teams checking in on Cuban pitching prospect Luis Omar Rodriguez, a 19-year-old starter, but they were beaten out by the New York Yankees for his services. Jesse Sanchez had the news that the Royals, Phillies and Dodgers were also in on Rodriguez. However, the Yanks announced the signing today.
Sanchez wrote, "The Dodgers, Royals and Phillies are among the teams that have expressed interest in Rodriguez, who projects to be a starter. He burst onto the international scene during the 2010 World Junior Baseball Championship when he struck out eight batters during a complete-game, 144-pitch outing to eliminate Team USA in the semifinals. He led Cuba to a bronze medal and was named to the competition's all-tournament team."
A slew of international signings should continue to roll in this summer as rules changes coming up with the new collective bargaining agreement will significantly affect how much money teams can offer. It's the reason Jorge Soler signed with the Cubs recently and smaller level prospects will also sign elsewhere soon.
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