Cubs Open International Signing Period With a Bang

The Chicago Cubs have roughly one month to sign another free agent or two to this roster before everyone starts reporting to spring training. Many fans are still hoping for a reunion with Cody Bellinger, but he's not the only possible fit. Other big names like Rhys Hoskins, Blake Snell and Josh Hader are still available and could help catapult this team into serious contention.

Whatever the Cubs are planning to do in free agency, those players will be signed to help them here and now. The thinking is they will be around to help Chicago in the next 2-3 years compete for a championship.

But those aren't the only moves available to make. The international signing window has opened, and the Cubs have entered the chat.

Cubs sign Fernando Cruz, MLB's No. 4 international prospect

The deal has not yet been finalized, but the Cubs have agreed to a deal with 17 year-old shortstop Fernando Cruz of the Dominican Republic for a reported $4 million. Cruz is No. 4 on MLB's list of the top 50 international prospects..

Cruz is 6-feet tall and is said to have strong hands that give him to great ability to hit the ball wherever he wants to. On defense, he is "alert" and has an "above-average arm." His combination of lockdown defense and skillful offense led him to be highly sought after for his services.

This is not exactly the move Cubs fans had in mind, thinking about the team this coming year. But it's comforting to know that the scouting staff is still looking ahead, and the club is willing to pay to land these top prospects.

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