Philadelphia Phillies sign international free agent Miguel Tejada Jr

The Philadelphia Phillies made a second official signing on Saturday, as they signed international free agent Miguel Tejada Jr.

Understandably, the big news around the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday involved Bryce Harper. He was officially signed to that 13 year, $330 million contract, with his introductory press conference occurring atop the third base dugout in Clearwater. It was the type of introduction that one would expect for the biggest signing in franchise history.

Meanwhile, with far less fanfare, the Phillies made another signing on Saturday. They signed international free agent Miguel Tejada Jr to a deal, bringing an intriguing prospect into the fold.

If that name sounds familiar, it should. Tejada is the son of former 16 year Major League veteran, and 2002 AL MVP, Miguel Tejada. Like his father, Tejada also plays shortstop, having moved there from the outfield.

More from Call to the Pen

• Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
• Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
• Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
• Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
• 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals

Tejada also has another unfortunate connection to his father’s history. He had originally been signed by the White Sox shortly after the international signing period started, only to test positive for Stanozolol. That positive test led to the White Sox backing off and removing their offer.

While the elder Tejada never tested positive for PEDs, he does have a spotty history with banned substances. Rafael Palmeiro claimed that his positive test was due to an injection he received from the former MVP, which he had been told was a B-12 shot. Tejada also pled guilty to lying to Congress about PEDs, and said that he had bought Human Growth Hormone while with the A’s, even though he claimed to have disposed of the PEDs before using them.

His spotty history aside, the Phillies have added an intriguing prospect. The 17 year old is considered to have good bat speed, quick hands, and a strong arm. There are questions as to whether or not he can remain at short long term, with a possible move to third coming in the future. Tejada is expected to develop the type of power that could keep him at the hot corner, where his excellent arm would be an asset.

The Philadelphia Phillies made a second signing on Saturday, inking Miguel Tejada Jr to a contract. If he can stay away from the PEDs, he will be an interesting prospect to watch develop.