The Rockies have signed Venezuelan shortstop Carlos Herrera for a $1.2MM bonus, according to MLB.com's Jesse Sanchez (on Twitter). The 16-year-old ranked 11th on Baseball America's list of Top 30 international prospects and 15th on MLB.com's Top 30.The Rockies have the third-largest bonus pool this year at $4.21MM.
MLB.com writes that "Herrera is a line-drive hitter and capable defender with the speed to be a very good baserunner and a threat on the bases." Baseball America praises his speed, athleticism and hitting ability while projecting him to stay in the middle of the diamond.
In more Rockies-related news, Ben Badler of Baseball America reports that the team's previously reported agreement with Colombian righty Erick Julio is for $700K. Badler adds that the projectable 16-year-old isn't a power arm now, but should add velocity as he matures and "already shows the makings of a quality curveball and changeup."
