MLB.com’s Jesse Sanchez reports that the Blue Jays have agreed to a multi-year contract with Cuban infielder Lourdes Gurriel. The deal is reportedly for seven years and $22 million.
Gurriel, 23, hit .269/.355/.414 in 1036 Serie Nacional plate appearances before defecting from Cuba. Baseball America’s Ben Badler has suggested that he has 20-homer potential in the majors one day. He’s played shortstop and second base, but is probably destined for a corner.
He’ll likely need some time in the minors before he sees time in Toronto.