As teams prepare to make signings ahead of the January 15 deadline for international free agency, shortstop Josuar Gonzalez will be signing with the San Francisco Giants, according to Francys Romero. Gonzalez is currently ranked as the second-best international prospect from the 2024-25 Free Agent class, right behind Roki Sasaki.
Gonzalez, 17, was born in the Dominican Republic. Once the deadline opens, he will be signing for about $2.5 million. He also represented the Dominican Republic as a member of their U-18 team in 2024. According to Romero, a scout described Gonzalez as “the most complete player in the entire class.” Playing in seven games during the WBSC Americas U-18 World Cup, Gonzalez hit for a .364 average, with two doubles and two triples, two RBIs, scoring seven runs, and stealing five bases. As for the tournament, the United States defeated Panama in the U-18 World Cup Final.
He stands at 5’11’’ and weighs 177 pounds. Gonzalez is a switch hitter and throws from the right side. He is considered an above-average athlete, with a projected arm strength of 70 on the 20-80 scale. As a switch hitter, Gonzalez displays more power from the left side, facing more right-handed pitchers in his lifetime, with plus bat speed. Another note is his ability to steal bases and a threat to score runs. Some scouts have compared him to former Dominican shortstop Jose Reyes, while others believe he is more comparable to Francisco Lindor.
Stay tuned for other international player signings throughout the remainder of the week. Players and teams will reach agreements, and their dreams will become a reality in the coming weeks.
