The Boston Red Sox appear poised to land a big name on the international market.
According to multiple reports, the Red Sox are at or near the top of the list of favorites to land Cuban free-agent outfielder Rusney Castillo.
ESPN.com reported early Friday morning that the Sox and Detroit Tigers were the front-runners to sign Castillo, and a source with direct knowledge of the situation indicated to ESPN.com that the Red Sox are “optimistic” that they’ll sign the 27-year-old. WEEI.com on Friday morning cited sources with multiple major league teams that believe the Red Sox are the favorites.
CBS Sports on Friday followed those by reporting that the Red Sox remain “heavily involved” and executives with other teams in the Castillo hunt feel the Sox are the favorites.
The Red Sox were one of a handful of teams who hosted the Cuban defector for a private workout. Castillo is rumored to be looking for a five-year deal worth $50 to $60 million.
Many feel Castillo has the ability to be a center fielder in the major leagues. He’s said to have good defensive skills and a solid arm. Offensively, Castillo possesses good speed and has some pop, too.
Here’s a look at Castillo from Baseball America:
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