- Sun Jan 19, 2025 11:31 am
#4273
The Dodgers continue to make headlines, not just for their World Series victory and big signings like Snell, Hernández, Kim, and Sasaki, but now for a truly historic move. Signing Joseph Deng, the first player ever from South Sudan, is a monumental achievement for the organization and for baseball as a whole. This begs the question: could Deng's signing be a catalyst for growth of the game in Africa, similar to how international signings from Japan and Korea have impacted MLB?
Deng, a 17-year-old with a 95 mph fastball, clearly has the raw talent to become something special. Considering his age and frame, it's not unrealistic to project him hitting triple digits in the future. What kind of development path will the Dodgers create for him, and how quickly might we see him in the minors?
This also sparks a larger conversation about scouting and player development. The Dodgers are clearly committed to finding talent in unconventional places. Are other teams lagging behind? What are the untapped regions around the globe that could become the next hotbeds for baseball talent? Let's discuss the future of international signings and what Deng's story means for the global game.
Deng, a 17-year-old with a 95 mph fastball, clearly has the raw talent to become something special. Considering his age and frame, it's not unrealistic to project him hitting triple digits in the future. What kind of development path will the Dodgers create for him, and how quickly might we see him in the minors?
This also sparks a larger conversation about scouting and player development. The Dodgers are clearly committed to finding talent in unconventional places. Are other teams lagging behind? What are the untapped regions around the globe that could become the next hotbeds for baseball talent? Let's discuss the future of international signings and what Deng's story means for the global game.