Cuban star prospect Yoan Moncada, a 19-year-old switch-hitting infielder with power and speed, has agreed to sign with the Boston Red Sox, according to multiple reports Monday.
The Boston Globe reported the deal is for a record $31.5 million signing bonus. The Red Sox reportedly outbid the New York Yankees by $6.5 million. MLB.com first reported the news, which was later confirmed by the Globe.
The Red Sox have already exceeded their international signing limits, so they will pay a 100 percent tax on the signing to Major League Baseball. In all, Moncada will cost the team $63 million.
Moncada left Cuba in June and quickly became the subject of an intense bidding war.
Moncada worked out for several major league teams in recent weeks. His reps reportedly were in talks with the Red Sox, Yankees, San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Scouts see the 6-foot-2, 205-pound Moncada as a 20-home run threat who could play second base, third base and in the outfield. Most believe Moncada will require some time in the minor leagues to further develop.
The previous bonus record for an international free agent amateur was $8.27 million when the Arizona Diamondbacks signed Cuban right-hander Yoan Lopez in January.
On Aug. 23, the Red Sox signed Cuban outfielder Rusney Castillo to a seven-year, $72.5 million deal.