Two potential international free agent targets expected to sign with Red Sox on Jan. 15
The Major League Baseball international signing period for 2025 opens on Jan. 15, and the Red Sox are already connected to two players who are expected to sign with the organization.
Boston is expected to sign 16-year-old infielder Dorian Soto, out of the Dominican Republic. The 6-foot-3, 185-pounder is currently ranked as the No. 28 player in the international pool, according to Baseball America.
“Soto has been on an upward trend, both physically and offensively. He has grown to 6-foot-3 and might end up taller with what’s already a well-proportioned build and a loose, fast swing,” Baseball America wrote.
“There’s explosiveness to his swing, and he’s able to get his lower half into that swing well already that helps him generate big power for his age with more to come. Early in the scouting process, some clubs had concerns about swing-and-miss, but as he’s gotten stronger, he has done a better job of controlling his moves at the plate, using his hands well to put the ball in play with a good approach for his age. Soto draws praise for his game acumen, and he has the actions to stick in the dirt, though his size will probably push him off shortstop. If he does move, his hands and solid-average arm should fit well at third base.”
Boston has also been connected to Venezuelan outfielder Harold Rivas, who has shot up the rankings page with Baseball America. The 16-year-old is considered one of the best athletes in the 2025 international class.
“He has explosive, quick-twitch actions on both sides of the ball and significant strength projection remaining in his lean 6-foot-2 frame with broad shoulders,” wrote Baseball America.
“Rivas is an excellent defensive center fielder. He’s a plus runner with a quick first step and good defensive instincts, and he is adept at tracking it in the air in all directions. His arm is another plus tool and could still tick up another grade, giving him the attributes to become a plus defender in center field.
“His defense and athleticism are reminiscent of Mets outfielder Jose Siri, but some scouts thought Rivas had better feel for hitting and more offensive upside. He’s a good fastball hitter who is still learning to recognize breaking pitches, but he has big bat speed for his age, backspins balls well with the ability to stay through the middle of the field, and the physical upside to grow into 20-25 home run power.”
In addition to Soto and Rivas, the Red Sox have also been connected to right-handed pitcher Sadbiel Del Zine and shortstop Eliezer Alfonzo, both out of Venezuela.
If the Red Sox sign these four players to open up the international free agency period, they’ll use some of their $6,261,600 of international bonus pool money on these future prospects.
