Rodriguez ranked sixth on MLB.com’s list of the top 30 international players available. According to the website, he signed a $7 million contract.
“Our whole group that scouted Aroldis and Raisel also saw Alfredo,” said Chris Buckley, the Reds’ senior director of amateur scouting in a statement. “We all think he’s an everyday shortstop with a chance to play plus defense. He’s a very smooth defensive infielder, a good line drive bat and a plus runner. We were impressed with his all-around defensive actions. It’s very hard to find an everyday shortstop who we liked everything about.”
Major League Baseball’s international signing period lasts from July 2-15. The Reds have signed two players from Cuba in recent years: closer Aroldis Chapman on Jan. 11, 2010; and pitcher Raisel Iglesias on June 27, 2014.
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