On Saturday, the Los Angeles Dodgers made history by signing 17-year-old right-handed pitcher Joseph Deng from South Sudan. Deng is the first player from South Sudan to sign a professional baseball contract, representing a significant achievement for both Major League Baseball and the Dodgers’ international scouting initiatives.
At 6-foot-7 and 185 pounds, Deng already throws a fastball that reaches 95 mph. His long, lanky build offers significant potential for physical growth, which could lead to an increase in velocity as he develops. In addition to his fastball, the young pitcher features a promising splitter, providing scouts with a solid foundation of skills that show great potential for the future.
The Dodgers have long been leaders in international player development, extending their scouting efforts to regions outside of the traditional baseball hotbeds. While many MLB teams focus on Latin America, the Dodgers have made significant strides in Africa. Deng becomes the second African player signed during this international signing period, joining Armstrong Muhoozi, an infielder from Uganda who signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Deng joins the Dodgers‘ 2025 international signing class, which is led by Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki. While Sasaki’s signing garnered much attention, Deng’s addition highlights the Dodgers’ dedication to scouting and developing talent from across the globe. After waiting for Sasaki’s decision, the Dodgers utilized extra international bonus pool funds to finalize agreements with Deng and other players from Latin America.
These recent moves demonstrate the Dodgers’ ambition to build both a powerhouse roster and a strong talent pipeline. Along with Sasaki and Deng, the team re-signed Teoscar Hernández, added Korean star Hyeseong Kim, and signed two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell this offseason, all aimed at reinforcing their position as perennial World Series contenders.
For Deng, his journey from South Sudan to the Dodgers is nothing short of remarkable. Baseball is still emerging in Africa, with countries like Uganda and South Africa making strides in the sport. Deng’s signing not only marks a personal milestone but also paves the way for future African talent to pursue professional baseball careers.
As Deng begins his professional career, the Dodgers will focus on refining his skills and maximizing his potential. With his towering frame and already impressive fastball, the young right-hander could become a key player in the Dodgers’ system and serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in South Sudan and beyond.
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