Report: Phillies sign 16-year-old Panamanian prospect
The Phillies, infamously inactive at the trade deadline and traditionally not very motivated on the international market, have made a move for the future. Sixteen-year-old Panamanian shortstop prospect Jonathan Arauz has been signed to a $600,000 deal.
The Phillies, infamously inactive at the trade deadline and traditionally not very motivated on the international market, have made a move for the future. Sixteen-year-old Panamanian shortstop prospect Jonathan Arauz has reportedly been signed to a $600,000 deal.
Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com first reported the deal.
While favoring the left, Arauz is a switch-hitter with average contact, sharp defensive skills and a strong arm. His speed is reportedly his weak point, but intelligence on defense makes up for his lack of agility. You won't see Arauz's name on any top prospect lists, but he was touted as the best prospect Panama had to offer.
He joins Arquimedes Gamboa and Daniel Brito as Phillies international signees since the market opened on July 2.