Significance of January 15 in International Baseball
The date of January 15 holds a unique place in the international baseball calendar, comparable to a blend of the Super Bowl, a Taylor Swift concert, and New Year’s festivities all in one.
Opening of the Signing Period
The commencement of the signing period on Thursday marks an official milestone for amateur international prospects, allowing them to cement their status as professional baseball players. This moment reflects the dedication and effort of not just the athletes but also their families, coaches, and the extensive network of scouts and evaluators associated with all 30 Major League teams.
Prospects for 2026
While this year doesn’t feature a standout player like Roki Sasaki at the top, the new class has several promising talents worth noting. You can find video highlights, scouting evaluations, and additional details on the Top 50 international prospects for 2026 below.
Why These Players Matter
Observing last year’s pennant race offers a glimpse into the increasing influence of Latin American players, from established stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., José Ramírez, and Juan Soto to emerging MVP contenders such as Julio Rodríguez, Elly De La Cruz, and Jackson Chourio.
Look to the Future
Currently, three of the top six prospects overall hail from the international market: Leo De Vries (Athletics), Jesús Made (Brewers), and Sebastian Walcott (Rangers). All three have reached Double-A by age 18, representing a vibrant and talented future for the sport.
Top Five Prospects of 2026
Here’s a closer look at this year’s leading international prospects:
- No. 1: Luis Hernandez, SS (Venezuela) – Historically significant as the first top international prospect born in Venezuela since 2012, Hernandez has showcased impressive skills at a young age.
- No. 2: Wandy Asigen, SS (Dominican Republic) – Recognized for his remarkable offensive abilities, Asigen boasts an impressive left-handed swing and agility on defense.
- No. 3: Francisco Renteria, OF (Venezuela) – At just 15, Renteria has displayed significant promise, with scouts lauding his physicality and athleticism.
- No. 4: Angeibel Gomez, OF (Venezuela) – With a strong right-handed swing and exceptional center field skills, Gomez was named MVP of the Amateur Scouting League in 2024.
- No. 5: Johenssy Colome, SS (Dominican Republic) – The son of an ex-MLB player, Colome is noted for his powerful swing and potential to transition to third base.
International Prospects Landscape
As we approach the 2026 World Baseball Classic, the landscape of Major and Minor Leagues features talent from across the globe, including representatives from ten countries outside the U.S. In the 2026 class, Venezuela occupies three of the top four positions, while the Dominican Republic leads in overall numbers among the Top 50 prospects.
