Phillies sign highly touted Dominican SS Jesus Starlyn Caba

Phillies ink highly touted international prospect, Jesus Starlyn Caba

The Philadelphia Phillies have reportedly signed the No. 13-ranked prospect in the Top 50 international list for $3 million — Jesus Starlyn Caba, according to MLB.com’s Jesse Sanchez.

Just 17 years old, Caba is far from being a sure thing, but scouting reports suggest there is the potential for him to be a five-tool player. Caba is rated as an above-average defensive shortstop and has plus speed.

Caba is a switch hitter and can hit the ball to all parts of the field. While his power is raw, some scouts believe it can be developed — as he consistently hits the ball hard.

The Caba signing could be significant because the Phillies still do not have a ton of hitting talent in their system. While the development of young pitchers — such as Andrew Painter, Mick Abel, and Griff McGarry — have been publicized over the past season, offensive prospects have been few and far between.

Hao Yu Lee, 19, and William Bergolla, 18, are some of their top offensive prospects. Both are middle infielders who are not close to making an impact in the majors. Caba would be in the same boat, but it is never bad to stockpile middle infield prospects.

The Phillies’ middle infield should be set for years with Trea Turner, 29, and Bryson Stott, 25. Having depth at second base and shortstop isn’t bad. Typically, those types of players are athletic and could transition to another position if the need arises.

While we won’t see Caba in Philadelphia anytime soon, fans will be able to see how he progresses with the club’s minor-league affiliates. Hopefully, this is an international signing that the Phillies can develop and help reach his full potential.