Phillies Sign Prospect Luis Encarnacion Moments After His 16th Birthday

The Phillies continued spending money overseas when they signed Dominican third base prospect Luis Encarnacion early Friday morning, reports Ben Badler of Baseball America.   Encarnacion was ranked as the #4 international prospect by Baseball America.   The minimal signing age for a player is 16 years old.  The Phillies struck at midnight, and Encarnacion comes with lots of power, Badler reports:

Dominican third baseman Luis Encarnacion became eligible to sign when he turned 16 at midnight. The Phillies struck quickly, signing Encarnacion for $1 million.

Enarnacion, the No. 4 international prospect for July 2, is one of the top hitters in Latin America. At 6-foot-2, 195 pounds, Enarnacion has a track record of hitting in games with plus raw power. His value is entirely in his offense, as he projects to move to left field or first base.

The Phillies probably won't see him for a while, since he is so young.  Phillies prospect Cesar Hernandez was signed by the Phillies way back in 2006 at 16 years old.  Hernandez is finally now approaching the big leagues at age 23.

Check out this video showcasing his abilities (in Spanish):