June 21, 2009 at 1:59 PM
Sox linked to Vinicio, Payano
According to Jorge Arangure, Senior Writer for ESPN the Magazine, the Red Sox will sign Dominican shortstop Jose Gregorio Vinicio to a $2-million bonus and Dominican lefthander Victor Payano to a $900,000 bonus in early July. The international signing period begins on July 2, and word is that Payano will sign on July 2, while Vinicio will sign on July 10 when he turns sixteen and becomes eligible to sign a professional contract. Vinicio is a much-heralded international prospect with highly regarded athleticism and power potential. He's drawn comparisons to Edgar Renteria. Payano is a tall, lanky lefty with a projectable frame and a clean delivery. He presently throws his fastball at 85-88 mph with nice downward movement, and also mixes in a slider and a changeup. All three have the potential to be above average major league pitches when Payano fills out his frame.