Tampa Bay Rays Set Franchise Record With $4.5 Million Contract to 12-Year-Old Talent

The Tampa Bay Rays have reached a non-binding verbal agreement worth $4.5 million with 12-year-old Dominican shortstop Maxuel Rosario for the 2031 international signing class, according to reporter Wilber Sánchez. If completed, the permanent international signing bonus would represent the largest bonus in Tampa Bay Rays franchise history. Scouts have drawn comparisons between the 6-foot-2 prospect and Cincinnati Reds standout Elly De La Cruz due to his speed, power, and arm strength.

Because Major League Baseball rules prohibit international prospects from officially signing before turning 16, the contract cannot be executed until 2031 at the earliest. The significant verbal commitment follows a successful season for manager Kevin Cash and the Rays, who reached the World Series against the Milwaukee Brewers before turning their focus toward future international pipeline talent.