As we approach the end of July, the main focus for most teams in major league baseball is the trade deadline, as there are just a few days left as we approach the deadline. However, the White Sox just made an intriguing move unrelated to the deadline, as they just added another player to their international free agent class.
According to Francys Romero, the White Sox have added Cuban outfielder Osniel Castillo to their international signing class for a $10,000 signing bonus.
Cuban OF Osniel Castillo (19) officially signed with the Chicago White Sox.
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) July 28, 2025
Bonus deal: $10,000.
Castillo was a member of the Cuba U-18 national team in 2024. Contact hitter with 55–60 speed on the 80-grade scale. Trained by Javier Rodriguez Academy. pic.twitter.com/qJch1DxwYM
This addition comes after the main signing period's flurry of deals, as a significant amount of players sign when the period opens up in January. Castillo will now add to an already very solid 2025 international free agent class for the White Sox.
While there isn't much information available about Castillo, Romero notes that he is a contact hitter that has very good speed. This is an interesting combination, as those traits can translate well over to the minor leagues.
Castillo played for Team Cuba in the U-18 Baseball Panam in 2024. In 26 at-bats, he hit .115 with a .258 OBP. He added two RBIs, two stolen bases and had five walks compared to just three strikeouts.
Osniel Castillo with a two run single and another scored on an error and Cuba leads Venezuela 4-0 pic.twitter.com/RLJBhKeqZP
— Jeff Duda (@INTLBaseball24) August 9, 2024
This was a small sample size, but Castillo showed his ability to get on base. Castillo was playing against some stout competition, as the American team featured a roster that was filled with first round picks in this year's draft.
While it remains to be seen what kind of impact Castillo will have in the White Sox organization, he has the tools that can carry him through the minor leagues, as teams are always looking for players that can get on base and wreak havoc on the base paths.
The White Sox are hoping for a nice return on investment, as $10,000 isn't a lot of money for a toolsy player like Castillo. It could be a few years before we see Castillo making an impact in the minor leagues, but since he is 19, he could make his way to the affiliated teams sooner rather than later.
