The Yankees have once again turned to the international market, securing a highly sought-after teenage talent from the Dominican Republic who they believe could become a key hitter in their system in the future.
Mani Cedeno, ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 11 international prospect, is the top signee for the Yankees’ 2025 class. A shortstop from the renowned San Pedro de Macorís—an area known for producing skilled baseball players, especially shortstops—Cedeno’s deal is worth $2.5 million, part of the $6.26 million pool money the team has this year.
At just 16 years old for most of his first professional season, Cedeno’s all-around skills have scouts excited about his potential. He trains under Daniel Brito at the Paulino Baseball Academy, a part of MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program. Cedeno’s right-handed swing stands out for its speed and smoothness, and he shows great ability to shift his weight in the batter’s box to generate emerging power. His athleticism also suggests he could be a strong defender and a base-stealing threat.
Scouts note Cedeno’s soft hands and solid footwork at shortstop, allowing him to make a variety of plays. Though he often prioritizes making precise, accurate throws over maximizing arm strength, evaluators believe there’s more arm potential to be unlocked.
In recent years, the Yankees have consistently targeted top international talent, with notable signings including Jasson Domínguez (ranked as the Yankees’ No. 1 prospect and No. 21 overall in 2019 for $5.1 million), Roderick Arias (No. 4 prospect, signed for $4 million in 2022), and Brando Mayea (No. 13, signed for $4.35 million in 2023). Domínguez and Arias were both ranked as the top prospects in their respective signing classes.
Mani Cedeno
While Cedeno’s future is promising, it’s important to remember that the development of international prospects often takes time. Arias, a fellow shortstop, is still just 20 years old and only recently finished his first stint in Single-A. Cedeno will have some time to develop, especially given the difference in their levels of experience at this stage of their careers.
The Yankees’ ongoing investment in international signings has significantly strengthened their prospect pool. Currently, 12 of their top 30 prospects are international signees, representing a strong mix of pitchers and position players across different positions.
International players are eligible to sign with a Major League team between January 15 and December 15, provided they turn 16 before signing and are 17 by September 1 of the following year. This means players born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008, are eligible to sign during the current period. Players must also be registered with Major League Baseball beforehand to be eligible.
Other notable Yankees signees and their bonuses include:
- Ruben Castillo, OF, Dominican Republic: $875,000
- Isaias Castillo, OF, Dominican Republic: $750,000
- Carlos Bello, SS, Dominican Republic: $400,000
- Edison Charles, OF, Dominican Republic: $300,000
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