June 21, 2015 at 10:40 PM
Anderson Espinoza promoted to GCL Red Sox, according to agent
The Red Sox will promote right-handed pitcher Anderson Espinoza to their affiliate in the Gulf Coast League. The news of Espinoza's move comes from his agent, J. Felix Luzon Melo of 9 Stars Sports Management.
Espinoza, 17, comes stateside after receiving a great deal of fanfare since making his professional debut on June 1. In 15 innings across four appearances, he has allowed only two earned runs, striking out 21 and walking three. In addition to a strong statistical performance, Espinoza has generated a great deal of buzz in the scouting community. His fastball has been reported to touch 99 mph with a smooth, easy delivery, and he complements that with a curveball and changeup, both of which have potential to become plus pitches.
The $1.8 million bonus the Red Sox signed Espinoza for in July 2014 is the largest ever for a Venezuelan amateur. At the time, he was rated the top international prospect by Baseball America, and Boston was so impressed by him that it surpassed its allotted amount for international signings to bring him into the fold.
The Gulf Coast Red Sox begin play on Monday, but Espinoza will report to the team by Tuesday according to his agent.
Photo Credit: Anderson Espinoza from @9StarsAgent via ultimasnoticias.com