The Athletics haven't been the biggest spenders in MLB free-agency, but in international free agency, they've been spending big.
While their $4 million deal for Johenssy Colome is of note, there's been plenty of additions this winter for the A's in this year's international prospect pool.
According to Francys Romero of beisbolfr.com, the A's have handed out a $1 million contract to a Dominican infield prospect who drew comparisons to longtime MLB infielder Elvis Andrus.
A's sign INF prospect to $1M deal akin to Elvis Andrus
"The Athletics have officially signed Dominican infielder Ricky Duran for a $1 million bonus," Romero reports. "According to a scout: 'Great work ethic. A Dominican version of Elvis Andrus.'"
Duran is a 17-year-old infield prospect who has a strong overall outlook. While he doesn't possess incredible power, speed, or contact, he's an overall quality player who can turn into a solid Major Leaguer thanks to his all-around nature.
Drawing a comparison to Andrus is a high compliment from this scout. Andrus, while he isn't a Hall of Famer, was one of the better players in recent years.
More: MLB Hot Stove tracker: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades for 2025 free agency
In his 15-year Major League career, he put up 34.5 bWAR, reaching 2,091 hits, 380 doubles, 51 triples, 102 home runs, 775 RBIs, 347 stolen bases, and finished with a.269 batting average,.325 on-base percentage,.370 slugging percentage, and an overall OPS of.695.
In his big-league career, his OPS+ came out to an 86, and while it's below average, his availability, base-stealing ability, and good fielding made him a solid player for a long time.
If Duran can have the career that Andrus had, this signing would be a massive success. The A's spent $1 million on Duran, and it would be more than worth it if he turned into even half of Andrus in the Major Leagues.
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