From ESPN:
SEATTLE -- The Texas Rangers officially signed outfielder Leonys Martin, a Cuban defector, Wednesday. He will get a five-year major league contract worth $15.5 million that includes a $5 million signing bonus.
It's the second-largest contract given to a Cuban defector. Hard-throwing left-hander Aroldis Chapman got a $30.25 million, six-year deal from the Cincinnati Reds in January 2010.
Leonys Martin signed the second-largest contract given to a Cuban defector.
"It's exciting and pretty unusual to add this kind of talent to the organization in April," Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said. "We're always looking to add premium ability and premium character to the organization, especially at a premium position that Leonys plays. It's our first foray into the Cuban defector market. Ownership stepped up with significant contract, including a sizeable signing bonus. It shows ownership's commitment not ony at the major league level, but adding talent on both ends of the pipeline."
Daniels said Martin could head to an affiliate some time later this month. That's likely Double-A Frisco. Daniels said the signing was about the long term but added that the club wouldn't be surprised if he ended up in the majors before the 2011 season is over.
First off let me apologize for the Rangers losing last night. My bad. It was 1-1 when I fell asleep on the couch last night. When I awoke the next morning I realized that the Rangers eventually faltered without my support.
Secondly, I will have to admit I have never heard of the this Cuban kid, but he must be straight baller. The Rangers aren't exactly in the league of the Yankees or Red Sox when it comes to throwing around millions of dollars at players that have never played in the U.S. (I'm looking at you Dice K), so he must be a coveted prospect. The main reason I care is because I can already see a T-shirt in the making if he's a stud. Just putting his face over Che Guevara's face and boom. Awesome shirt.
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