The Philadelphia Phillies have a superstar on the horizon in the form of their newest draft pick.
While most attention is focused on Major League deals during the offseason, teams also look to bolster their farm systems. The Philadelphia Phillies have done just that, according to MLB.com’s Francys Romero. The Phils have officially signed 17 year old Cuban shortstop prospect Denilo Aguila. Aguila is a switch-hitter and showed some intriguing tools in his first two games with the S.F.C.’s Boca Raton Blazers.
Aguila walked three times in his first four games and struck out once. He also flashed some defensive skills that fit his physical profile. Aguila also has a very polished swing that could be improved upon quickly.
Of course, it’s hard to put too much pressure on a kid who’s only 17 years old and hasn’t played high school or college baseball in the U.S. It’s the scouts’ job to find players that other teams may have overlooked and project what kind of player they might become. Aguila could be that player.
Now that he’s signed with Philadelphia, they’ll have every tool at their disposal to try and turn him into a major leaguer. They’ve done a great job of doing that in the past, with players like Bryson Stott (now with the Dodgers), Alec Bohm (now with the Angels), Johan Rojas (now with the Yankees), Ranger Suarez (now with the Reds) and now Orion Kerkering (with the Dodgers).
The 25-year-old switch-hitter is currently ranked No. 23 by MLB.com and the Phillies are looking to add more talent to their farm system. Acquiring a switch-hitting infield prospect with Aguila’s potential certainly helps with the team’s rebuilding process. As for when Philadelphia could see the Cuban, it’s too early to say.
