Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Astros to Sign International Free Agent Ruben Menes in 2023
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On January 15, the Houston Astros are expected to sign Cuban right-handed pitcher Ruben Menes, journalist Francys Romero reported Friday. The next international signing period opens January 2023 when the spending pool resets.
Menes is a 20-year-old hurler who drew a crowd of scouts from 15 MLB teams on June 17 in Delray Beach, Fla. The 6-foot-3, 185-pounder ranged 92-94 mph on his fastball, mixing in a slider and an 80-mph changeup, according to Romero’s report.
Before leaving Cuba last year, Menes debuted his professional career with the Cocodrilos de Matanzas on the Cuban National Series. The righty worked three innings across two outings, surrendering one hit and two walks to his three punch outs.
After agreeing to a signing bonus of $725,000, Menes will start his Minor League career with the Dominican Summer League Astros.
In February, the Astros ranked first among all Major League Baseball teams in Cuban-born players throughout their system with 21. As the franchise continues to ink international free agents into July, another Cuban standout is already expected to sign with the team next year in Menes.
