The Boston Red Sox landed Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes in a trade last month. Friday, they added another Cuban defector to their outfield.
The Sox signed vaunted centerfielder Rusney Castillo to a $72.5 million contract that will make him Boston’s through 2020. Reports conflict as to whether the deal lasts for six or seven seasons, a likely consequence of the remainder of the 2014 season included in the deal.
The deal sets a record for the most lucrative contract for an amateur player in baseball history. The Tigers reportedly sought the services of Castillo after trading away Austin Jackson in the David Price deal. Rather than a player to provide an extra push to a pennant contender, Castillo will serve as a building block for the 2015 Red Sox season.
Castillo brings speed and power to Fenway Park. At 27, with several years of experience in Cuba under his belt, Castillo looks to play in the majors this season.
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