SHSBulldog00
07-09-2010, 12:38 AM
The Astros made one of the biggest splashes in the international signing period Wednesday, reaching an agreement with 16-year-old Dominican free agent outfielder Ariel Ovando.
Terms of the minor-league contract were not immediately disclosed, but Baseball America reported that Ovando's signing bonus is between $2.6 million and $2.8 million, which is believed to be a franchise record for an amateur player.
"We’re extremely excited to get Ariel into the Astros organization,” general manager Ed Wade said. "Ariel profiles as a middle-of-the-order power hitter with excellent defensive skills."
Ovando, a 6-4, 180-pound lefthanded-hitting right fielder, was considered one of this year’s top July 2 prospects in Latin America. Latin players are eligible to be signed if they are 16 years old by July 2. He'll turn 17 on Sept. 15.
Astros scouting director Bobby Heck described Ovando as an advanced hitter for his age who reminds him of Jason Heyward, Fred McGriff and Carlos Delgado.
Ovando is expected to report to the Astros Latin American complex in Boca Chica, Dominican Republic, in a few days and then will be scheduled to participate in the Florida Instructional League in Kissimmee, Fla., in September.
Terms of the minor-league contract were not immediately disclosed, but Baseball America reported that Ovando's signing bonus is between $2.6 million and $2.8 million, which is believed to be a franchise record for an amateur player.
"We’re extremely excited to get Ariel into the Astros organization,” general manager Ed Wade said. "Ariel profiles as a middle-of-the-order power hitter with excellent defensive skills."
Ovando, a 6-4, 180-pound lefthanded-hitting right fielder, was considered one of this year’s top July 2 prospects in Latin America. Latin players are eligible to be signed if they are 16 years old by July 2. He'll turn 17 on Sept. 15.
Astros scouting director Bobby Heck described Ovando as an advanced hitter for his age who reminds him of Jason Heyward, Fred McGriff and Carlos Delgado.
Ovando is expected to report to the Astros Latin American complex in Boca Chica, Dominican Republic, in a few days and then will be scheduled to participate in the Florida Instructional League in Kissimmee, Fla., in September.