The MLB Winter Meetings are underway this week and while they have been converted to a virtual event because of the pandemic, they nonetheless will conclude with the annual Rule 5 Draft on Thursday.
The Los Angeles Dodgers added right-handed pitchers Gerardo Carrillo, Andre Jackson and Edwin Uceta, as well as outfielder Zach Reks to their 40-man roster to protect against potentially losing any of them in this year’s Rule 5 Draft.
Carrillo, Jackson, Reks and Uceta all were part of the Dodgers’ 60-man player pool this past season and spent the year training at their USC site. So too did the likes of Omar Estevez, who was a bit of a surprise omission from being added to the 40-man roster.
With Estevez now eligible to be taken in the Rule 5 Draft, the Dodgers are anticipating that will be the case, according to J.P. Hoornstra of the Southern California News Group:
Internally, the Dodgers are expecting Omar Estevez will be selected in the Rule 5 draft Thursday. https://t.co/MAazeYq2VP
— J.P. Hoornstra (@jphoornstra) December 6, 2020
The Dodgers inked Estevez out of Cuba as part of their haul during the 2015-16 international signing period. He reportedly received a $6 million signing bonus, which also came with a penalty equal that amount for the Dodgers due to exceeding their international bonus pool space.
Estevez began his professional career with Low-A Great Lakes in 2016 and the next two seasons were spent with High-A Rancho Cucamonga. After setting career highs with 43 doubles, 15 home runs and 84 RBI for the Quakes in 2018, Estevez earned his way up to Double-A Tulsa last year.
The middle infielder enjoyed another productive season but also missed some time due to a hamstring injury. Estevez again was a non-roster invitee to Spring Training this year, though his time was limited due to shoulder trouble.
Who is eligible for the Rule 5 Draft
Players who were signed at age 19 or older and have spent professional baseball for four years are eligible to be selected in the annual Rule 5 Draft.
So too are those signed at 28 years old and have played five years. A player selected during the Minor League phases can be placed on any roster in the Minors and does not have to be offered back to their original club.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
