Jorge Soler Rumors: Cubs Have no Deal in Place for Soler

Just before the Yoenis Cespedes signing became official, the Chicago Cubs made it clear that they were bowing out of the sweepstakes for the highly-touted Cuban prospect.  However, in the same breath Chicago added that they were turning their attention to another top Cuban defector, outfielder Jorge Soler.  While Soler has yet to be declared a free agent by Major League Baseball, it’s been rumored that the Cubs have a deal in place for Soler.  Yesterday, while speaking with reporters, Cubs general manager shot down these rumors, calling them “completely bogus”.

Though Soler has lingering visa issues to be worked out before he can officially hit the free agent market, teams have been negotiating privately with the Cuban native.  While there have been at least nine teams tied to Soler this offseason, each report involving negotiations included a side note which named the Cubs as the club most likely to land the prospect.  Initial reports had Chicago submitting a $27.5 million offer to Soler.

But Hoyer denied these reports, calling the rumors that the Cubs have a deal in place with Soler “completely bogus”.  Hoyer added that the rumors “have no merit”.

While Hoyer’s statements could be chalked up to GM-speak, they could also signal an opening of the door for other teams interested in Soler.  We learned last month that the Boston Red Sox “would love to land Soler”.  Beyond the Cubs and Red Sox, the White Sox, Blue Jays, Orioles, Phillies, Yankees, Marlins and Indians have all been tied to the outfielder.

Little is known about Soler, but scouts claim he could potentially hit for more power than Cespedes, who’s been listed as a potential 30/30 threat.  Soler’s arm and bat speed have been characterized as ‘plus’, and those who have spoken with him say the 20-year-old has a great makeup.  Back in December, Baseball America said Soler would have been a top-five pick if he was in the 2011 MLB Draft.

Because Soler is not a draftee, and thus not restricted to negotiating with a single team, some speculate the bidding will get silly.  The Cubs reported offer of $27.5 million is not far from the $36 million Cespedes commanded and nearly double the $15.5 million the Texas Rangers handed Cuban outfielder Leonys Martin last year.

More power to Soler and his representation for taking advantage of the system and market that has developed.  But, as a fan, do you want your team committing $20-plus million on Soler?

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