White Sox to sign Cuban outfield prospect Oscar Colas, per report

If reports hold true, the White Sox will have another significant international prospect joining the organization.

According to MLB insider Francys Romero, Cuban outfielder Oscar Colas is expected to sign with the South Siders for a deal around $2.7 million when the next international signing period opens on January 15, 2022.

Colas, previously of Japan’s SoftBank Hawks, officially became an MLB free agent on December 23, 2020 and has been connected to the White Sox long before then. However, the Cuban’s age and lack of professional experience only allows for him to sign a minor league contract and be subject to international bonus pools. This created a tricky situation for both the player and organizations like the White Sox, who had little left to spend after deals with outfielder Yoelki Cespedes, pitcher Norge Vera, and others during the current signing period. By waiting until next January, both parties can ensure that enough is available financially to strike a deal.

While he hasn’t played professionally in almost two years now, Colas has still been regarded as one of the top international prospects available on the market. In 2019, the left-handed hitter slashed .300/.353/.511 with 12 home runs, 19 doubles, and 48 RBI in 295 plate appearances (73 games) for the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks of Japan. He’s also been called the “Cuban Ohtani” by some after rumors that he was trying to become a two-way player, though he doesn’t have an extensive track record on the mound.

The Wednesday evening reports by Romero have yet to be confirmed by any other MLB insiders or outlets at this time. We will update this story as more becomes available.

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