The Philadelphia Phillies have built a roster that can contend for a World Series right now, but their roster is quickly aging. Their World Series window is open, but it’s closing with each passing year.
With that in mind, the Phillies must bolster their farm system in any way possible. The MLB draft is the easiest way to hit on big prospects, but they could also add in international free agency.
On Thursday, the Phillies landed a potential star in international free agency.
MLB Pipeline reported on Thursday that the Phillies signed 17-year-old international free agent Juan Parra for $550,000. Parra is MLB Pipeline’s No. 39-ranked prospect of this winter’s international free agency class.
Parra, 17, is an excellent prospect with Gold Glove potential. He’s one of the fastest prospects in this winter’s class, and his speed shouldn’t take any hit as he continues growing into his frame.
Parra profiles as a center fielder, which should drive his value up in the coming years. He has a decent hit tool, but the power isn’t there, which limits his ceiling as a prospect.
Down the road, Parra could grow into some power, but as of now, he seems to be a contact hitter with plus speed and defense. This should fit the Phillies perfectly in the future.
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