If you missed it on Thursday while recovering from the holiday, the Kansas City Royals finally dipped their toes into the international free agency market with the signing of Venezuelan third basemen Samir Dueñez. The deal was for the sum of $425,000.
A 6'1" 196 lb lefthanded hitter, Dueñez garnered attention recently in the Dominican Prospect League's minor league. Playing for Navagentes, the young slugger hit .313/.329/.448 in 19 games with six doubles and a home run. He drew two walks while striking out 13 times in his 67 at-bats.
Dueñez has raw power, but thus far has shown to be often too-aggressive at the plate (sounds much like the major league squad). He has drawn comparisons to current San Francisco Giants third basemen Pablo Sandoval, recently named to the National League All-Star team that will play next week in Kansas City.
For more on the Dominican Prospect League, head on over to DPL Baseball. For continued Royals news and notes, make sure to visit Royals Review.