Report: Reds agree to $6M deal with Cuban Alfredo Rodriguez

The Cincinnati Reds are diving into the international market to nab a potential shortstop of the future, signing Cuban infielder Alfredo Rodriguez to a $6-million deal, MLB.com's Jesse Sanchez reports.

The deal has yet to be confirmed by the club.

The 21-year-old was declared a free agent by MLB on Monday and the deal is subject to international signing guidelines.

If the agreement is confirmed, the Reds would be unable to sign a prospect for more than $300,000 during the international signing period that begins Jul. 2.

The Reds must pay Rodriguez a $6-million bonus and an additional $6 million in penalty to acquire his services, according to Sanchez.

Ben Badler of Baseball America wrote last May that the slick-fielding shortstop was arguably the best defensive player at his position in Cuba.

Rodriguez is a 2014-15 Serie Nacional rookie of the year and Gold Glove winner, who hit .265/.301/.284 in 304 plate appearances across 84 games for La Isla De La Juventud last season.

Zack Cozart is currently projected as the starting shortstop for the Reds next season and the team's top prospect at the position is Alex Blandino, who is listed as the No. 11 prospect in their system, according to MLB Pipeline.

Eugenio Suarez, normally a third baseman, and Jose Peraza, the organization's top prospect, are also potential shortstop options for the Reds.