Cuban infielder Christian Rodriguez (20) has officially signed with the Chunichi Dragons via a press conference in Havana’s Latinoamericano Stadium yesterday. His deal that will net him 180,000 dollars was negotiated by the Cuban Baseball Federation. According to several MLB scouts: “Rodriguez is a great talent with above-average speed, arm and contact”.
Rodríguez was part of the Cuban U-23 team that finished tenth in the World Cup in 2022. The Villa Clara native was selected as the All-tournament shortstop, hitting .368 , with an extra-base double and two RBIs. On defense he made no errors in 31 attempts, made 17 assists and recorded four double plays.
Cuban SS Christian Rodriguez (20) signed with the Chunichi Dragons, per sources.
Bonus deal: $180,000.
The contract was negotiated by the Cuban Baseball Federation
According to several MLB scouts: "Rodriguez is a great talent with above-average speed, arm and contact”. pic.twitter.com/WCB7r6bPNU
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) January 13, 2024
The shortstop will begin this upcoming season in the team development program and will more than likely begin the with Chunichi’s second team in the minors. His play will depend on how far he moves in the organization during the year.
In 2024, a total of seven players will see action via the Cuban Federation Japan, while Omar Linares will serve as a coach for Chunichi. The athletes were Liván Moinelo and Dario Sarduy with the Soft Bank Hawks; Raidel Martínez, and Frank Abel Álvarez with the Chunichi Dragons; and Ariel Martínez with the Nippon Ham Fighters.