Brian34Cook

07/05/2008 4:14 PM ET
Cards ink six Latin American prospects
Domincan De La Cruz considered among top hitters available
By Lee Hurwitz / MLB.com

ST. LOUIS -- For the last few years, only a few clubs were able to spend the big bucks in Latin America.

Indicating that Latin American prospects are a priority, the Cardinals decided to pony up and invest in several prospects. Signing six prospects -- four from the Dominican Republic and two from Venezuela -- the Cardinals are making good on their commitment to becoming a player in bringing in Latin American prospects.

"It's a step up," vice president of player development Jeff Luhnow said. "We're signing players of a slightly higher magnitude than we were used to."

Luhnow added that the Cardinals' scouting in Latin America is much more prepared than in the past. Because of this, they were able to lure 16-year-old third baseman Roberto De La Cruz to a reported signing bonus slightly over $1 million.

The other prize the Cardinals got was 16-year-old right-handed pitcher Santo Franco. Though not valued as highly as Michael Inoa, who is considered the best pitching prospect in Latin America, Luhnow said Franco is not that far off. With a 6-foot-7 frame and 190-pound build, the Cardinals believe Franco can be something special as he gets stronger.

The Cardinals also signed right-handed pitcher Dennis Monter, shortstop Grabiel Hernandez, shortstop Cesar Valera and southpaw Jose Weffer.

[Link]