White Sox Ink Top Youngster to Open International Signing Period

Monday, January 15 marked the start of Major League Baseball's international signing period and it didn't take the Chicago White Sox long to make a move.

MLB Pipeline's Jesse Borek and Jesus Cano report that the White Sox have agreed to terms with 17-year-old third baseman Eduardo Herrera. The Venezuelan slugger currently clocks in as the No. 11 international prospect on MLB.com's rankings.

White Sox News: Chicago Signs Eduardo Herrera

Even though the franchise has yet to officially announce the signing, it's understandable why White Sox fans are excited about the teenager's future.

Herrera is one of the most exciting prospects at the moment, often compared to MLB icon Albert Pujols by scouts. That isn't to say that he's guaranteed to become a three-time MVP or a 700-homer hitter, but his physical attributes and ability to adapt at the plate are sufficient reasons for such a comparison.

Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 200 pounds, Herrera began his career as a shortstop before switching over to third base once he grew more. Scouts describe him as being nothing more than average on defense, though, meaning he may move over to first as his Major League career progresses.

Herrera was only 15 years old when he debuted with Venezuela's under-18 international team, already giving him big-game experience. If he can bring that experience and the ability to play under pressure to the MLB, the White Sox could have something special on their hands.

The MLB's international signing period runs from now through Dec. 15, 2024. Players are eligible to be signed during that stretch as long as they are A)16 years old before they sign and B) 17 years old before Sept. 1 of the following campaign.

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