Marlins Eyeing Cuban Outfielder

[Miamarlin21]

Yay! But, is he really 18?

Marlins scouting Cuban outfielder Balaguer
By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com | 01/26/11 1:35 PM EST
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MIAMI -- A year ago, the Marlins weighed whether to sign hard-throwing left-hander Aroldis Chapman, who wound up with the Reds.

Once again, the Marlins are showing interest in a Cuban-born player.

MLB.com has confirmed the team on Wednesday is watching a workout for Yasiel Balaguer, an 18-year-old Cuban outfielder. His athleticism and defense have drawn comparisons to Andruw Jones.

Balaguer arrived in Miami in November after leaving Cuba while traveling to Mexico. The 18-year-old is being represented by Carlos Perez of Miami Sports Consulting.

According to the Miami New Times, Balaguer is looking for a deal in the $18-20 million range. There are conflicting reports on the outfielder's talents. The Miami Herald has stated that he is "one of the biggest promising stars of Cuban baseball," while Baseball America considers him "solid" while having "average tools."

Balaguer is also expected to work out for the Mariners and Cubs

[Ralph]

do it!

[Ramp]

No chance we sign him

[Big Z]

He looks, and speaks like he is 18.

I've never seen him hit, maybe our scouts will like him. He's a big kid too.

[Big Z]

MLBTR-

The Marlins have had discussions internally about signing Cuban outfielder Yasiel Balaguer, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro. The 18-year-old has worked out for the Cubs and had a recent tryout for the Mariners rained out, reported Michael Miller at the Miami New Times yesterday. However, lest we get ahead of ourselves, Balaguer's agent Carlos Perez at Miami Sports Consulting informed El Nuevo Herald's Jorge Ebro that Balaguer has yet to be unblocked by the State Department after defecting in November.