Report: Six teams identified as 'serious' players for Rusney Castillo; deal imminent
The sweepstakes to land Cuban star Rusney Castillo could reach a conclusion in a matter of days, reports Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com.
Heyman identifies six teams that Castillo privately worked out for - the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and Seattle Mariners - as having the best shot to land the coveted 27-year-old outfielder.
Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington acknowledged Tuesday that his club is in the running.
Cherington on Castillo situation: "We are one of many teams interested. That's all I'll say."
— Joe McDonald (@ESPNJoeyMac) August 19, 2014
Castillo reportedly impressed during workouts, leading industry officials to speculate bidding for his services might range from $35 million to $55 million, and possibly beyond.
He was seen in some circles as mostly a speed player entering his open workout, but he popped several very long home runs in the initial exhibition at the University of Miami that he is viewed as having very good powerful potential. "He isn't Abreu or Cespedes in terms of power, but he has above average major-league power," one official with an interested team said.
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Castillo's other tools received similar praise, and while most teams view him as an outfielder ("he can play center, no doubt," one scout said), the Yankees are said to be considering him for second base. "He has the actions of an infielder," one scout said.
Castillo is said to be mulling offers from multiple teams, according to Heyman, and is expected to announce his decision possibly as early as this week.