Dodgers add first ever player from South Sudan in historic move

The The Los Angeles Dodgers made history on Saturday signed 17-year-old Joseph Deng, a right-handed pitcher from South Sudan. Deng becomes the first player from South Sudan to sign a professional baseball contract, marking a significant milestone for Major League Baseball and the Dodgers’ global scouting efforts.

At 6-foot-7 and 185 pounds, Deng already possesses a fastball that tops 95 mph. With his long limbs, long frame, there is plenty of room for physical development, suggesting that his speed could increase as he matures. The young pitcher complements his fastball with a promising splitter, showing a strong foundation of tools that scouts believe has tremendous potential.

The Dodgers have consistently been at the forefront of international player development, expanding their reach into less traditional baseball regions. While most MLB teams focus their scouting efforts on Latin America, the Dodgers’ presence in Africa is notable. Deng is the second African player signed during this international signing period, following Armstrong Muhoozian infielder from Uganda who signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Dodgers continue to be active in the international market

Deng joined the Dodgers’ 2025 international signing class. led by the Japanese phenomenon Roki Sasaki. While Sasaki’s signing dominated the headlines, Deng’s addition underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to identifying and nurturing talent from around the world. After waiting for Sasaki’s decision, the Dodgers used the extra international bonus cap space to finalize deals with players like Deng and others from Latin America.

The Dodgers’ recent moves reflect their ambition to build a powerful roster and robust talent pipeline. In addition to Sasaki and Deng, the team re-signed Teoscar Hernandez, signed Korean star Hyesong Kim and added two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell this offseason. The moves are meant to solidify the Dodgers’ status as perennial World Series contenders.

For Deng, the journey from South Sudan to the Dodgers organization has been nothing short of remarkable. Baseball continues to be a growing sport in Africa, with countries like Uganda and South Africa making strides. Deng’s signing not only represents a personal achievement, but also paves the way for future talent from Africa to pursue professional baseball opportunities.

As Deng begins his professional journey, the Dodgers will work to hone his skills and unlock his full potential. With his tall frame and already impressive fastball, the young right-hander could become a key player in the Dodgers system and an inspiration to future athletes in South Sudan and beyond.