With Yoenis Cespedes, Jose Abreu and more finding success in the Major Leagues, the market for Cuban talent has never been hotter.
Rusney Castillo is the latest Cuban star to defect, and it's looking like he'll command between $50 and $60 million for a five-year deal. After making his move in late 2013, Castillo has spent the last few months acclimating to the States, but now his decision is imminent. While he may not have the power of Cespedes or Abreu, Castillo has the speed and versatility to excel at the top level.
The successor to Yoenis Cespedes in Cuba's CF spot, Castillo wasn't taken to the 2013 World Baseball Classic amid suspicious that he'd use the opportunity to defect. Castillo was reportedly suspended for most of his last season in Cuba because of a prior defection attempt, so his move to the States didn't exactly come as a surprise.
There are five teams still in the running for Castillo: the Phillies, Tigers, Giants, Red Sox and Yankees. Philadelphia is the least likely destination, according to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, but the other four teams are still strong contenders.
We'll keep you posted on Castillo's decision over the coming days.
