ST. LOUIS — Cuban outfield prospect Jorge Oña has been declared a free agent by Major League Baseball, a source said Tuesday. The 20-year-old is expected to sign with the Padres, continuing a massive influx of talent into their farm system.
San Diego already has committed about $50 million, including overage taxes, during the 2016-17 international signing period, which opened July 2. Adding Oña, perhaps the best amateur talent left on the market, would give the Padres their second notable Cuban signing. Less than two weeks ago, they acquired 17-year-old left-hander Adrian Morejon for a club-record bonus of $11 million.