No Roki Sasaki? No problem.
The Mets are poised to make a significant splash in the international market by signing Him, the No. 2 international prospect from the Dominican Republic, following a verbal agreement. While Sasaki holds the top spot, the Mets will have the resources to officially ink Peña when their international bonus pool money—totaling $6,261,600, per Baseball America—is replenished on Wednesday.
The 17-year-old infielder is expected to sign for $5 million, nearly doubling the $2.85 million they gave catching prospect Yovanni Rodriguez last year. According to Baseball America, Peña’s bonus is the largest in this year’s class.
Baseball America offered this scouting report on Peña:
If his development aligns, Peña could become a high-level hitter with 25-30 home run power, drawing comparisons to Rafael Devers. Offensively focused, Peña will likely begin his career at shortstop but may transition to third or second base due to his strong, stockier lower frame. He’s worked hard to boost his athleticism and speed, making him a solid-average runner in motion. While his defensive abilities at shortstop have improved, his range and actions may better suit third base, where his plus arm is an asset.
Ben Badler also highlighted that Peña, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 155 pounds (per Javier Rodriguez Baseball Academy), is well-suited for a potential shift to third base.
The Mets have previously found success in the international market, landing key prospects like infielder Ronny Mauricio ($2.1 million in 2017) and catcher Francisco Alvarez ($2.7 million in 2018). Both are expected to play pivotal roles for the franchise in the future.
Beyond Peña, the Mets are also set to sign right-handed pitcher Yobanny Sanchez and two-way player Johancel Cuello, both from the Dominican Republic.
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