Two promising Cuban baseball prospects, Yobal Rodríguez and Yoslaniel Hernández, are gearing up to make a significant leap in their careers by signing contracts with Major League Baseball (MLB) organizations on January 15, marking the start of the international signing period.
At just 16 years old, right-handed pitcher Rodríguez, hailing from Ciego de Ávila, is expected to sign with the Chicago White Sox, as reported by journalist Francys Romero on Facebook. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 3 inches, the pitcher has caught the eye of numerous scouts with his fastball, which currently ranges from 91 to 94 miles per hour and is projected to reach 98 MPH in the future. Regarded as one of the most promising "hidden prospects" of the 2024-2025 class, Rodríguez left Cuba in 2022 to pursue his dream of reaching MLB. His potential positions him as a future standout for the White Sox.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old left-handed pitcher Hernández, from Matanzas, will be joining the Pittsburgh Pirates. With a fastball that sits between 91 and 93 MPH and a mix of secondary pitches that suggest potential as a starter, Hernández is another Cuban talent poised to make an impact in professional baseball. He departed Cuba in 2024 and has been training under the guidance of Yuan Pino, whose academy has developed nine other prospects also set to sign with various MLB teams during this international period.
The signing of these young players underscores the emerging talent that continues to arise from Cuba, despite numerous challenges. With Rodríguez and Hernández, MLB teams are betting on Cuban prospects as pivotal elements for the future of the sport. January 15 will be a critical date for both athletes as they strive to carve out a path in a competitive system and follow in the footsteps of other renowned Cuban names in Major League Baseball.
Insights into Cuban Baseball Prospects
Who are the Cuban prospects signing with MLB teams?
Yobal Rodríguez and Yoslaniel Hernández are the Cuban prospects preparing to sign with MLB teams.
Which MLB teams will Rodríguez and Hernández join?
Yobal Rodríguez is set to join the Chicago White Sox, while Yoslaniel Hernández will be signing with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
What are the key attributes of these Cuban players?
Rodríguez is known for his fastball reaching up to 94 MPH, with potential to hit 98 MPH. Hernández has a fastball between 91 and 93 MPH and a strong mix of secondary pitches.