Astros give $1.5M deal with Cuban shortstop Anibal Sierra

HOUSTON (AP) - Cuban shortstop Anibal Sierra will receive a $1.5 million signing bonus as part of his minor league contract with the Houston Astros.

The 22-year-old played for Avispas de Santiago from 2012-14 in Cuba. He appeared in 91 games, playing 47 games at second base and 26 games at shortstop.

"Anibal is an athletic shortstop who can hit and play multiple positions, and possesses the intelligence, work ethic, and baseball instincts to succeed at the highest levels," Astros international director Oz Ocampo said.

Sierra's deal, which was announced Saturday, calls for him to receive the bonus within five days of the deal's approval by the commissioner's office.

"Anibal stood out to me after my first look in November 2015 in the Dominican Republic," Astros senior scouting adviser Charlie Gonzalez said.

Earlier this month, the Astros agreed to a a $47.5 million, five-year contract with Cuban infielder Yuliesky Gurriel.