The Boston Red Sox’s deal with acclaimed Cuban infield prospect Yoan Moncada was made official Thursday night by the team.
The Red Sox agreed to a record $31.5 million signing bonus in February, but Moncada was required to pass a physical before the contract could be finalized.
The Red Sox will be required to pay a 100 percent tax, another $31.5 million, to Major League Baseball for signing Moncada because they exceeded their international bonus pool. The team has until July 15 to pay the tax and up to three years to pay the bonus.
The 19-year-old switch hitter, who played in Cuba’s top league for two years, was working out in spring training with the Red Sox and will be assigned to the club’s minor league camp.
Ranked as the No. 10 prospect by Baseball America, Moncada is versatile enough to play second base, third or the outfield. Some scouts think he could make it to the majors next year.
