Top MLB International Prospects To Watch In 2023

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 49 views

The world of baseball is always buzzing with excitement, and one of the most thrilling aspects is the emergence of young, international talent. These international prospects bring a unique blend of skills, passion, and cultural diversity to the game, captivating fans and scouts alike. In this article, we'll dive into the top international prospects who are expected to make waves in Major League Baseball in 2023. Get ready to meet the future stars of the game!

Understanding International Prospect Evaluation

Before we jump into the list, it's crucial to understand how these young talents are evaluated. MLB teams invest significant resources in scouting networks that span the globe, from Latin America to Asia and beyond. Scouts assess players based on a variety of factors, including:

Physical Tools: This includes raw power, speed, arm strength, and overall athleticism. Scouts look for players who possess exceptional physical gifts that translate to on-field performance.
Hitting Ability: Evaluating a hitter involves analyzing their bat speed, hand-eye coordination, plate discipline, and ability to make consistent contact. Scouts also consider a hitter's potential for future development.
Pitching Mechanics: For pitchers, scouts focus on their delivery, arm action, velocity, control, and the movement of their pitches. They also assess a pitcher's ability to repeat their delivery and maintain consistency.
Defensive Skills: Fielders are evaluated on their range, fielding ability, arm accuracy, and overall defensive instincts. Scouts look for players who can make difficult plays and contribute positively to the team's defense.
Baseball IQ: This refers to a player's understanding of the game, including situational awareness, decision-making, and overall strategic thinking. Scouts often look for players who demonstrate a high level of baseball IQ, as this can be a key differentiator.
Makeup: A player's character, work ethic, coachability, and overall attitude are also important factors in the evaluation process. Teams want players who are not only talented but also possess the right mindset to succeed at the highest level.

These evaluations are not just based on a single game or workout; they involve years of observation and analysis. Scouts build relationships with players and their families, gathering as much information as possible to make informed decisions. The international scouting process is a complex and competitive landscape, with teams vying for the opportunity to sign the next generation of baseball superstars. By understanding the evaluation process, we can better appreciate the immense potential of these young players.

Top International Prospects to Watch

Alright, guys, let's get to the good stuff! Here’s a rundown of the top international prospects who have been generating buzz and are expected to make a splash in 2023 and beyond. Keep in mind that prospect rankings can be subjective and change rapidly based on performance and development.

Felnin Celesten (SS, Dominican Republic): Celesten is a switch-hitting shortstop with incredible upside. His bat speed and raw power are impressive, and he combines that with plus speed and smooth defensive actions. He's got the potential to be a five-tool player. He stands out due to his exceptional bat speed and raw power from both sides of the plate. His defensive abilities are equally impressive, featuring smooth actions and a strong arm. He has the potential to develop into a five-tool player, making him one of the most sought-after international prospects in recent years.
Joendry Vargas (SS, Dominican Republic): Vargas is a highly athletic shortstop with a projectable frame. He's shown impressive bat speed and developing power. Defensively, he has soft hands, good range, and a strong arm. Vargas's athleticism and potential for growth make him an exciting prospect. With further development, he has the potential to become a star at the major league level.
Leo De Vries (SS, Dominican Republic): De Vries is considered one of the most advanced hitters in this international class. He possesses exceptional bat control, a keen eye at the plate, and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. His defensive skills are also impressive, showcasing soft hands and fluid movements at shortstop. He projects as a potential top-of-the-order hitter with Gold Glove-caliber defense.
Daiverson Gutierrez (C, Venezuela): Gutierrez is a catcher with a rare combination of offensive and defensive skills. He possesses a strong arm, excellent receiving skills, and a knack for controlling the running game. At the plate, he exhibits impressive power potential and a mature approach. Gutierrez's all-around abilities make him a highly sought-after prospect. With continued development, he has the potential to become an elite catcher at the major league level.
Luis Mejia (SS, Dominican Republic): Mejia is a shortstop known for his advanced defensive skills and impressive athleticism. He possesses quick feet, soft hands, and a strong arm, making him a standout defender. At the plate, he exhibits a line-drive approach with the potential for added power as he matures. Mejia's defensive prowess and athleticism make him a valuable prospect. With further development, he has the potential to become a Gold Glove-caliber shortstop.
Yandel Ricardo (SS, Dominican Republic): Ricardo is a switch-hitting shortstop with a well-rounded skill set. He possesses a good feel for hitting, solid defensive skills, and above-average speed. Ricardo's versatility and all-around abilities make him an intriguing prospect. With continued development, he has the potential to contribute in multiple ways at the major league level.
Jesus Dilone (OF, Dominican Republic): Dilone is an outfielder with exceptional speed and athleticism. He covers a lot of ground in the outfield and possesses a strong arm. At the plate, he exhibits a contact-oriented approach with the potential for added power as he matures. Dilone's speed and defensive abilities make him a valuable prospect. With further development, he has the potential to become a dynamic player at the major league level.
Victor Hurtado (SS, Venezuela): Hurtado is a shortstop known for his smooth defensive actions and impressive baseball IQ. He possesses soft hands, good range, and a strong arm, making him a reliable defender. At the plate, he exhibits a line-drive approach with the potential for added power as he matures. Hurtado's defensive skills and baseball IQ make him a valuable prospect. With further development, he has the potential to become a solid contributor at the major league level.
Michael Chirinos (SS, Venezuela): Chirinos is a shortstop with a strong arm and impressive defensive skills. He also shows promise at the plate with a developing bat. Chirinos is a well-rounded player with the potential to develop into an impact player.
Joaquin Tejada (SS, Dominican Republic): Tejada is a switch-hitting shortstop with a knack for making consistent contact. His defensive skills are also developing nicely. Tejada’s ability to hit from both sides of the plate makes him a valuable asset.
Angel Cepeda (OF, Dominican Republic): Cepeda is an outfielder with blazing speed and a strong arm. His speed makes him a threat on the basepaths and in the outfield. Cepeda’s speed and athleticism give him a high ceiling.
Abraham Nuñez Jr. (SS, Dominican Republic): Nuñez Jr. boasts a strong baseball pedigree and impressive defensive skills. He's got a good feel for the game and is expected to develop into a solid all-around player. Nuñez Jr.’s baseball IQ and defensive prowess make him a prospect to watch.
Jose Ramos (OF, Mexico): Ramos has a powerful swing and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. He’s got the potential to be a middle-of-the-order bat. Ramos’s power and hitting ability make him one of the top prospects from Mexico.
Carlos Silva (RHP, Venezuela): Silva is a right-handed pitcher with a fastball that can reach the mid-90s. He's also got a good slider and changeup. Silva’s impressive velocity and secondary pitches make him an intriguing pitching prospect.
Diego Benitez (SS, Dominican Republic): Benitez is a switch-hitting shortstop with smooth actions and a strong arm. His versatility makes him a valuable asset. Benitez’s switch-hitting ability and defensive skills give him a solid foundation for future development.
Kevin Alcantara (OF, Dominican Republic): Alcantara is a toolsy outfielder with a combination of speed, power, and arm strength. He’s got the potential to be a five-tool player. Alcantara’s all-around abilities make him a highly touted prospect.
Cristian Vaquero (OF, Cuba): Vaquero is an outfielder with a rare blend of power and speed. He's got the potential to be a game-changer. Vaquero’s combination of power and speed makes him one of the most exciting prospects from Cuba.
Alfredo Duno (C, Venezuela): Duno is a catcher with a strong arm and excellent receiving skills. He's also shown promise at the plate. Duno’s defensive abilities and potential at the plate make him a prospect to watch.
Juan Bello (OF, Dominican Republic): Bello is an outfielder with exceptional speed and a knack for getting on base. He's a disruptive force on the basepaths. Bello’s speed and on-base ability make him a valuable asset.
Kenni Gomez (SS, Dominican Republic): Gomez is a shortstop with a smooth glove and a strong arm. He's got the potential to be a Gold Glove defender. Gomez’s defensive skills make him a standout prospect.

Factors Influencing Prospect Development

It's important to remember that becoming a successful MLB player is not solely based on talent. Several factors can influence a prospect's development, including:

Coaching and Instruction: The quality of coaching and instruction a player receives can have a significant impact on their development. Good coaches can help players refine their skills, improve their mechanics, and develop a better understanding of the game.
Opportunity and Playing Time: Prospects need opportunities to play and develop their skills. Teams that provide young players with ample playing time are more likely to see them reach their full potential.
Health and Injury Prevention: Staying healthy is crucial for any athlete, and baseball players are no exception. Teams that prioritize injury prevention and provide players with access to quality medical care are more likely to see their prospects succeed.
Mental Toughness and Resilience: The ability to handle adversity, overcome challenges, and maintain a positive attitude is essential for success in baseball. Prospects who possess mental toughness and resilience are more likely to reach their full potential.
Cultural Adjustment: International prospects often face unique challenges adapting to a new culture and language. Teams that provide support and resources to help players adjust to their new environment are more likely to see them succeed.

The Future is Bright

The international talent pool is a vital source of players for Major League Baseball, and the prospects listed above represent the future of the game. As these young players continue to develop and refine their skills, they have the potential to become stars on the biggest stage. Keep an eye on these names as they make their way through the minor leagues and strive to achieve their dreams of playing in the majors. The future of baseball is bright, and these international prospects are poised to lead the way! Remember, the journey to the majors is a marathon, not a sprint, and these players have the talent, dedication, and passion to make their mark on the game.

So, there you have it, folks! A glimpse into the exciting world of international baseball prospects. Keep an eye out for these rising stars – you might just be witnessing the birth of a legend!