Phillies to Sign Cuban Pitcher Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez

In huge breaking news, Jeff Passan reports that the Phillies have outbid the Boston Red Sox for 26 year old Cuban pitcher Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez. A few weeks ago after it was reported that Gonzalez was cleared to sign with the MLB it was reported that the Phillies showed interest (My post from the 7/17). The deal is for 6 years/$50 million.

This is by far the biggest international signing by the Phillies in their history and a great risk worth taking. As the season appears lost, there is money to spend with a new TV deal approaching. Gonzalez instantly becomes the top prospect in the system and some even believe he's major league ready now.  It's a risk but a good risk.  A sign that the Phillies are very much still players when it comes to making moves even as the season seems lost.