CHICAGO ( Associated Press) – The Chicago White Sox added another name to their rich Cuban history when they announced Tuesday that they have agreed to a contract with outfielder Oscar Kolas.
Considered one of the top international free agents, the Kolas received a $2.7 million signing bonus. The team also announced that it has agreed terms with outfielder Eric Hernandez that include a $1 million bonus.
The 23-year-old is a resident of Santiago de Cuba. He bats and throws left-handed and has .282 hits with 28 homers and 116 RBIs in 187 games in his overseas league career.
Kolas has also served as a pitcher, but Marco Paddy, an executive for the White Sox’s international operations, said he would focus on developing him as an outfielder.
“He wants to be a position player and feels like he has a better chance of succeeding as a position player,” Paddy said, “and we think that’s a position in his development as a pitcher.” It will take longer than the player.
“So, for that kind of player with that kind of power, that kind of ability on the field, of course we’re looking for someone who has the opportunity to get into the big leagues very quickly.”
The White Sox have experienced long-term success with Cuban natives including Minnie Minoso, who was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in December, and first baseman Jose Abreu, along with center fielder Luis Robert in his current position. Let’s extend all the way to the team. Catcher Yasmani Grandal, and third baseman Yoan Moncada. The team also features Yoelqui Cespedes, Norgay Vera and Yolbert Sánchez in the minors.
Kolas said he spoke to Robert, Cespedes and Sanchez before finalizing his decision.
“They told me it’s a great organization, that they’re very excited to have me,” Kolas said through a translator, “and they want me to join them and do as much as they’re doing here.” Just play hard.”
Hernandez, 17, hails from Moka, Dominican Republic. He bats and throws with the left hand.
The team said it expected to sign more internationals in the coming weeks.
“We feel very happy with what we were able to achieve this year,” Paddy said. “Having the ability to sign two high-end prospects with impact-type instruments like Kolas and Hernandez, I would classify this as a solid year.”
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