A prime example of the ever increasing number of Cuban-born big leaguers, Rusney Castillo signed a seven-year $72.5 million contract with the Boston Red Sox on August 23, 2014. Twenty-five days later, Castillo made his Major League debut. He played in only ten games, but showed flashes of brilliance.
With six years of pro baseball experience in Cuba, Castillo is already 27 years old and already making the big bucks. Despite a Red Sox outfield loaded with Hanley Ramirez, Mookie Betts and Shane Victorino from left to right and despite not being listed among the top 30 prospects in the Boston organization by MLB.com, Castillo is still the most likely player to capture the American League Rookie of the Year Award.
It’s possible Castillo may begin the 2014 season in Pawtucket, but don’t be surprised if he forces his way into the everyday lineup early in the season.
Able to hit for both power and average with plenty of speed (he hit .320 with 22 home runs, 95 RBI and 32 stolen bases in 107 games in 2012-13 and hit .342/.408/.574 with 27 steals in 113 games the following season), Castillo is too advanced for Triple-A. Plus, Betts is capable of a sophomore slump, Victorino is 34 and Ramirez is an injury risk annually, which could open the door as well.
He’s not Yasiel Puig, and he’s not Jose Abreu, but once he’s established in John Farrell’s order, Rusney Castillo should prove to be the most valuable rookie in the AL.
Next: NL Rookie of the Year Candidates