The Yankees have once again leveraged the international market to secure a highly regarded prospect from the Dominican Republic, aiming to add an impactful bat to their farm system.
Ranked No. 11 among international prospects by MLB Pipeline, is the marquee signing of the Yankees’ 2025 international class. A shortstop from San Pedro de Macorís—a region renowned for producing elite ballplayers, especially skilled shortstops—Cedeno adds to the team’s promising pipeline of talent.
He signed with the Yankees for $2.5 million, a significant portion of the team’s $6.26 million international signing pool for 2025.
At just 16 years old, Cedeno will spend nearly his entire first professional season as one of the youngest players in the system. His combination of age and well-rounded skills has scouts highly optimistic about his potential. Cedeno trains under Daniel Brito at the Paulino Baseball Academy, part of MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program, further bolstering his development as a top prospect.
Mani Cedeno’s skill set has scouts buzzing, thanks to his impressive bat speed and balanced, smooth right-handed swing. He effectively shifts his weight in the box, hinting at power that’s just beginning to emerge. His athleticism not only fuels his potential as an impact defender and base-stealing threat but also enhances his performance at the plate.
Defensively, Cedeno’s soft hands, fluid footwork, and advanced positioning make him a standout at shortstop. Evaluators are impressed by his decision to prioritize accuracy over sheer arm strength when making crisp, reliable throws, though they believe there’s even more velocity in his arm if needed.
The Yankees have a track record of landing elite international talent, including Jasson Domínguez ($5.1M in 2019), Roderick Arias ($4M in 2022), and Brando Mayea ($4.35M in 2023). Both Domínguez and Arias were the top-ranked international prospects in their respective classes and have risen as key pieces in the Yankees’ pipeline. Cedeno, signed for $2.5 million, follows in their footsteps as the latest highly-touted international signing.
At just 16 years old, Cedeno will have ample time to develop. The Yankees are likely to take a patient approach, as they did with Arias, who at 20 years old just completed his first season at Single-A. Cedeno will have room to grow at shortstop without immediate pressure, giving him valuable reps early in his career.
The Yankees’ dedication to the international market has been instrumental in building their farm system. With 12 of their current Top 30 prospects hailing from international signings, they’ve cultivated a diverse mix of pitchers and position players. This investment strategy has solidified their depth across various positions, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the future.
Eligibility Details:
To sign with a Major League team, an international player must:
- Be born between Sept. 1, 2007, and Aug. 31, 2008, for the current signing period.
- Turn 16 before signing and 17 before Sept. 1 of the following year.
- Be registered with Major League Baseball beforehand.
Other Yankees 2025 Signings:
- 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
This group complements headline signing Mani Cedeno ($2.5M) and reinforces New York’s commitment to developing young international talent. With their emphasis on scouting and player development, the Yankees continue to bolster their minor league system, setting the stage for sustained success.
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