NEW YORK -- The Sox announced the signings of six international free agents earlier this week, headed by two young catchers. This is one of several windows for teams to sign international players who will turn 17 by the end of the calendar year.

Craig Shipley, the team’s director of international scouting, was excited about two catchers: Ali Gonzalez and Oscar Perez, both from Venezuela.

Of Gonzalez, Shipley said: “We like him a lot. He’s got an above-average arm, quick feet and a good release. He has the possibility to develop power down the road. He’s an interesting guy.”

The Sox also signed left-handed pitcher Hansel Suero from the Dominican Republic, right-handers Ivan Marcano and Enrique Cuevas and third baseman Juan Vargas, all from Venezuela. Marcano, as described by Shipley, “has a big frame and projectible velocity.”

The signed players will play for the Red Sox entry in the Dominican Summer League.