Chris
The New York Mets have made a significant addition to their farm system by signing 17-year-old shortstop Elian Peña from the Dominican Republic. Peña, ranked as the No. 3 international prospect by MLB Pipeline, received a $5 million signing bonus—the largest in Mets franchise history for an international free agent.
Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 167 pounds, Peña is celebrated for his exceptional offensive capabilities. Scouts highlight his advanced pitch recognition, solid plate discipline, and the ability to work deep into counts. His left-handed swing has been graded at 65 out of 80 by MLB Pipeline, indicating a potential for significant power development. Some talent evaluators have drawn comparisons between Peña and Boston Red Sox’s Rafael Devers, particularly regarding their offensive prowess.
Defensively, while Peña’s primary position is shortstop, there is speculation that he may transition to third base as he matures physically. This potential move is attributed to projections about his future size and the corresponding defensive demands. Regardless of his eventual position, Peña’s bat is expected to be his standout tool, with the potential to develop into a well-rounded and dangerous hitter.
The Mets’ decision to allocate a substantial portion of their $6.26 million international bonus pool to Peña underscores their confidence in his abilities and future impact. This strategic move came after the team was informed that they were no longer in contention for Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who is expected to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, or Toronto Blue Jays. By securing Peña, the Mets have added a high-upside talent to their organization, potentially bolstering their infield in the coming years.
Peña’s signing is part of a broader international strategy by the Mets, who agreed to terms with 15 international free-agent players on the first day of the 2025 international signing period. This approach reflects the organization’s commitment to building a robust pipeline of talent through international scouting and development.
As Peña begins his professional career, he will enter the Mets’ minor league system, where he is expected to receive comprehensive development to refine his skills both offensively and defensively. Given his age and potential, the organization will likely adopt a patient approach, allowing him to progress through the ranks as he adapts to professional baseball in the United States.
The addition of Elian Peña represents a significant investment in the Mets’ future, with the young prospect poised to become a key contributor in the years to come. His development will be closely monitored by both the organization and its fan base, eager to see how his talents evolve on the path to the major leagues.
