Phillies sign promising young Cuban shortstop

After the Philadelphia Phillies made their first big free agent signing in bringing back former All-Star and team ace Aaron Nola, not much has taken place in terms of recent relevant signings for the ballclub. However, they did ink a couple of free agent pitchers, José Ruiz and Nick Snyder, to minor league contracts to add pitching depth to the organization.

But in recent days, the Phillies finally got back into action and signed a promising future prospect from the international free agent pool, Cuban shortstop Denilson Águila. He is a switch-hitter who possesses an above-average arm to go along with his strong defense, coupled with good bat speed in his hitting, per Francys Romero.

Per Romero, Águila is the 32nd Cuban-born player to sign a deal in the current international signing period which ends on Dec. 15.

Águila is a prospect that has a huge upside and could potentially flourish in the North American environment under the right instruction and guidance. A glimpse of his fluid swing is put on display in this short practice video:

Stats from Águila have been limited so far, but he has played in two games for the Boca Raton Blazers of the South Florida Collegiate Baseball League and registered three walks, two runs scored, one stolen base and a strikeout in four plate appearances. With a frame greater than six feet and 180 pounds already at just the young age of 17, he has the potential to become a power bat as well when his body fills out with muscle and strength over time.

Águila will need some growth and developmental time in the Phillies’ minor league system before he eventually makes his mark at the big league level. But with the Phillies aiming to build a team that can sustain long-term success, Águila will become an important piece for the Phillies down the road in due time.

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