He had the best jersey ever – Dodgers Nearing Deal With Cuban Shortstop Arruebarruena” pic.twitter.com/DSUPZBLEYR”
— Source Teamworks (@SourceTeamworks) February 12, 2014
By Jon Weisman
Defensive infield whiz Erisbel Arruebarrena has inked a five-year contract with the Dodgers, becoming the latest Cuban expatriate to join the organization.
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers designated infielder Justin Sellers for assignment. Sellers had a .278 on-base percentage and .301 slugging in 266 plate appearances with the Dodgers.
Arruebarrena, 23, was a teammate of Yasiel Puig with Cienfuegos in 2010-11.
“We are excited to sign Erisbel, who we’ve scouted in international competition for a long time.” said Dodger vice president of international scouting Bob Engle. “He brings another superb glove to our organization.”
Added general manager Ned Colletti: “Signing Arruebarrena gives us another very good middle infielder, who is an outstanding defender. It continues our efforts internationally to add talent that can positively affect the Major League club – be it immediately or in the very near future.”
Arruebarrena’s last name is shorter than Todd Hollandsworth, 13 to 12, but his first and last together top the former Dodger Rookie of the Year, 19-16.
Cameron Coy
Does Erisbel’s last name have 2 “u’s” in it or not? The back of his game jersey pictured above show it with 13 letters as in “Arruebarruena,” so what gives?? How is his last name really spelled? Maybe he has tied Hollansworth with the longest last name for a Dodger!