MLB- For aspiring amateur baseball players around the globe, January 15 marks a pivotal day—the start of the international signing period. It’s a moment when years of dedication and hard work come to fruition, offering these players the opportunity to chase their dreams of playing in Major League Baseball. For many, it’s just the beginning of a long and challenging journey towards the big leagues. While most of the signees are still at a high school level, the international signing period showcases players from various corners of the world, all eager to take the first step in their professional careers.

However, the landscape looks a little different in 2025. Roki Sasaki, the top international prospect, stands out as an anomaly. At 23 years old, Sasaki is already Major League-ready, unlike the usual crop of 16- and 17-year-olds who typically headline international signing classes. His signing marks the beginning of what could be an exciting career at the highest level of baseball. Sasaki has been on MLB scouts’ radars for years, thanks to his explosive fastball, which has reached 102 mph, and his virtually unhittable splitter, which earned a staggering 57.1% whiff rate in 2024. As soon as he signs, Sasaki is expected to immediately impact a Major League rotation.

Sasaki’s signing window is open until January 23, and reports indicate that three teams are still vying for his services. His contract will be determined by the international signing pool available to each club, which varies by organization. The competition is intense, with MLB teams eager to secure the services of a potential ace.

Beyond Sasaki, the international signing period also features some incredible talent. Among the top prospects is Josuar De Jesus Gonzalez, a switch-hitting shortstop from the Dominican Republic. Gonzalez has drawn comparisons to MLB All-Stars like Francisco Lindor and José Reyes due to his impressive performance at the 18U World Cup. Elian Pena, another shortstop from the Dominican Republic, has wowed scouts with his advanced plate discipline and five-tool potential. Other top talents include outfielder Cris Rodriguez, also from the Dominican Republic, and Andrew Salas, a versatile infielder/outfielder from the United States.

This year’s signing class reflects the global reach of the sport, with players from countries such as the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Cuba, and Japan, showcasing the diverse pool of talent available to MLB teams. As the signing period unfolds, baseball fans can look forward to the next generation of stars, ready to make their mark on the game.