Report: White Sox reach deal with Viciedo

Nov 21, 2008 - 4:49 PM CHICAGO (Ticker) -- The Chicago White Sox have reached an agreement to sign Cuban defector Dayan Viciedo, according to a published report.

Agent Jaime Torres confirmed the deal to the Chicago Tribune on Thursday, but an official announcement is on hold until the 19-year-old power hitter completes a physical.

A third baseman with ability in the outfield as well, Viciedo has agreed to a major league contract worth $10 million, according to the Tribune.

"It came down to where he would feel most comfortable," Torres told the newspaper.

An All-Star at age 16 in the Cuban league, Viciedo immediately becomes a top prospect in the organization, and could compete for a job on the parent club as soon as this spring.

"He has a good arm and tremendous power," said Victor Mesa, who managed Viciedo on Villa Clara. "He has excellent technique but at the same time is surprisingly calm for his young age and very secure in defense."

Viciedo reportedly left Cuba on May 20, taking a boat to Mexico before crossing the United States border and traveling to Miami, where he has family.

Torres eventually helped him establish residency in the Dominican Republic, a move that kept him from being declared eligible for MLB's amateur draft.