REPORT: The Atlanta Braves officially opened the international signing period by welcoming 11 new prospects, headlined by 17-year-old Dominican shortstop Jose Mañon ($1.5M bonus). Unlike previous years where they targeted one "mega-prospect," Alex Anthopoulos is "spreading the wealth," adding high-ceiling arms and bats from Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela to a farm system in need of a reset.

Braves Sign 11 International Free Agents, Headlined by Top Prospect Jose Manon

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Braves continued their strong presence on the international market Thursday, announcing the signings of 11 international free agents, highlighted by highly regarded shortstop Jose Manon from the Dominican Republic.

Manon is ranked No. 15 on MLB’s Top 50 International Prospects list, making him one of the premier talents available during this year’s signing period. The 17-year-old is expected to receive a signing bonus of approximately $1.5 million, according to multiple reports.

With Manon’s signing, the Braves have now landed a top-15 international prospect for the third consecutive year, joining only the New York Mets and Seattle Mariners as the only franchises to accomplish that feat over the same span.

Jose Manon Brings Five-Tool Potential

Manon has already impressed scouts with his combination of size, athleticism, and baseball instincts. Standing 6-foot-2, he is known for his high contact rate, advanced approach at the plate, and exceptional defensive ability at shortstop.

During his stint in the Amateur Scouting League, Manon went 8-for-26 with seven RBIs across nine games. He also showcased his speed and baserunning instincts by going a perfect 7-for-7 in stolen-base attempts.

Scouts view Manon as a well-rounded prospect with the potential to remain at shortstop long-term, a premium position that aligns well with the Braves’ emphasis on athletic, up-the-middle defenders.

Braves Continue International Success

Atlanta’s continued success on the international market reflects the organization’s long-term development strategy. By consistently targeting elite young talent, the Braves have strengthened their pipeline while maintaining competitiveness at the major league level.

The international signing period runs from January 15 through December 15, allowing eligible players to sign with MLB organizations. To qualify, players must be at least 16 years old at the time of signing and turn 17 by September 1 of the following year. For the current signing window, eligible players were born between September 1, 2008, and August 31, 2009.

All international players must also be registered with Major League Baseball prior to signing.

Full List of Braves International Signees

The Braves’ 2026 international free-agent class includes a diverse group of players from across Latin America:

RHP Efrailin Caminero — Dominican Republic
RHP Geowin Gomez — Colombia
RHP Jonathan Hechavarria — Cuba
RHP Matthew Luna — Dominican Republic
C Jorwin Pulido — Venezuela
INF Durban Arnedo — Colombia
INF Edelson Cabral — Dominican Republic
INF Luis Fortunato — Dominican Republic
INF Jose Manon — Dominican Republic
OF Starlyn De La Cruz — Dominican Republic
OF Osmar Torrealba — Venezuela

Looking Ahead

While it will be several years before most of these players approach the major leagues, Manon’s signing immediately stands out as a potential cornerstone for the Braves’ future. Combined with their recent international success, Atlanta continues to position itself as one of baseball’s most effective organizations at identifying and developing global talent.