Cuban outfielder Yasel Puig has defected from Cuba and is in the process of establishing residency in Mexico.  The 21 –year-old made a name for himself playing for the Cuba’s Junior National team. 

Puig is a highly sought baseball commodity.  Jaime Torres , Puig’s agent told MLB.com, “As of Monday morning, I submitted information to Major League Baseball and the Players Association that he has taken up residency in Mexico and will shortly establish legal permanent residency in Mexico,” Torres said. “We should have documentation of his legal permanent residency in Mexico soon and as soon as I have that, I will submit it to Major League Baseball and I hope and expect that he will be declared a free agent immediately.”

Could Puig demand a similar contract to Jorge Soler’s nine-year, $30 million deal with the Chicago Cubs? 

Puig’s value is yet to be determined; however a showcase for major league scouts is scheduled for later this week June 19 - 7:45 am ET in Mexico City.  Stay Tuned.

Written By HS News Writer:  Tim Horodyski