The D-backs are nearing a deal with one of the top unsigned international free agents, 16-year-old Venezuelan outfielder Wildred Patino, MLB.com's Jesse Sanchez has learned. The club has not confirmed the deal.
Patino is the No. 25 prospect on MLB Pipeline's Top 30 International Prospects list. The athletic teenager projects as a center fielder and has the potential for plus tools across the board.
Patino had previously agreed to a $1.3 million deal with the Rangers in July before an arm injury derailed the deal. Texas had still been in the running to sign him, according to Sanchez.
This move would bolster a D-backs international class that is already headlined by Bahamian outfielder Kristian Robinson, who is the No. 15 prospect on MLB Pipeline's Top 30 list. Robinson, who signed for $2.55 million, is a plus runner, and his big frame gives him advanced raw power from the right side.
Arizona also signed Dominican shortstop Neyfy Castillo ($600,000), Venezuelan catcher Sergio Gutierrez ($565,000), Dominican shortstop Liover Peguero ($475,000) and Venezuelan outfielder Jorge Barrosa ($415,000). The team has a pool total for this year's signing period of $5.75 million.
After the Patino deal becomes official, six of the top 30 international prospects will remain unsigned, including Brazilian right-hander Eric Pardinho (No. 5) and Venezuelan catcher Antonio Cabello (No. 8).