The Boston Red Sox introduced new signing Yoan Moncada. And from the looks of it, the 19-year-old Cuban prospect might play a big role in the 2015 MLB season for the Red Sox.
Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington expressed optimism that signing Moncada will turn out to be a good decision for the team, saying that the switch hitter is one of the best 19-year-old athletes in the world.
"He's got a really unique combination of skills -- great athlete, speed, switch hitter with power from both sides of the plate, defensive skills," Cherington said of Moncada. "He's an athlete with the ability to play multiple positions if he had to, but he's a natural second baseman."
Moncada was coveted by several teams before committing to the Red Sox last month. He officially signed a $31.5 million contract on Thursday. According to Cherington, Moncada will spend time in the minor league and will be elevated to the major league once they feel the youngster is ready to make an impact.
Sources indicated that Moncada has been on the radar of the Red Sox since 2010 after team scout Todd Claus watched him in Holland. Director of International scouting Eddie Romero was also left in awe when he saw the Cuban play in Amsterdam two years ago.
"He's a developing baseball player, but an exceptionally talented one," Cherington said of Moncada. "Obviously, given the investment we're making we believe he can be a very good major-league player for a long time and we're committed to helping him get there, in the right way."
Moncada is a natural switch-hitting baseman, but has also played different roles before. According to Cherington, their new recruit will likely be developed at second base, but could also be featured at third base and center field.
Moncada expressed gratitude to the Red Sox and vowed to be committed in training. He admitted that he is not yet in playing shape, but promised to work hard on it to prepare for his return on the field.
