The international signing period for Major League Baseball (MLB) kicks off today, marking the start of an exciting journey for prospects aiming to join the 2026 class. Players are now free to sign their contracts, paving the way for teams to bolster their farm systems with fresh talent.
Baseball America subscribers can access detailed breakdowns of the signing classes for all 30 teams, which include scouting reports on standout players as well as emerging talents that could surprise by outshining their initial projections.
Leading the Philadelphia Phillies’ international prospects is infielder Aroon Escobar, who is currently ranked as the team’s fourth overall prospect. The Phillies’ farm system has also made headlines recently due to trades that involved three more of their top 10 prospects, including catcher Eduardo Tait (acquired by the Twins), infielder Hao-Yu Lee (now with the Tigers), and shortstop Starlyn Caba, who remains with the Phillies. This year, their signing class prominently features Venezuelan players, highlighted by standout Francisco Renteria, who has signed for $4 million.
Renteria, an outfielder with a robust frame of 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, is recognized for his impressive physicality, power, and athletic prowess. Having represented Venezuela in several international tournaments, including the recent U-15 World Cup in 2024, he brings raw power and exceptional bat speed to the plate. This talent positions him well to potentially become a 30-plus home run hitter, although he may need to refine his approach against breaking pitches. His speed and agility allow him to play in center field, but his body type may eventually lead him to a corner outfield position.
The Phillies also added Venezuelan shortstop Juan Parra for $550,000. Parra stands out as a promising athlete, demonstrating quickness and athleticism at shortstop. He is a switch-hitter who shows potential for impact from both sides of the plate, although he is still refining his consistency in routine plays.
Venezuelan catcher Sebastian Saenz, another promising addition, is notable for his left-handed batting skills. At 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, he possesses a compact swing that allows for both contact and power potential. His capability behind the plate is complemented by his offensive prowess, projecting him as a future core player.
Lefthander Samuel Ortiz is among the notable pitchers in this signing class. Now standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 190 pounds, Ortiz has developed a lively fastball that touches 94 mph, complemented by a high-spin breaking ball. Meanwhile, Dominican right-hander Justin Burgos, who stands at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, showcases a strong athletic delivery and effective pitches, having posted an impressive 1.83 ERA during his participation at the U-15 World Cup in Colombia. Righthander Yilmar Samudio from Panama further strengthens the class with a 94 mph fastball and a knack for spinning breaking balls.
This influx of talent highlights the significant investment teams are making in young prospects, creating a pool of potential stars that could make a lasting impact on the league in the coming years. The combination of physical prowess, skill development, and international experience among these young players reveals a promising future for baseball as these athletes strive to make their mark.