The Mets are generating buzz in the international baseball scene. Reports, including those from Francis Romero of beisbolfr.com, reveal that 16-year-old Dominican shortstop Wanda Ashigen plans to sign with the Mets on January 15, 2026, the start of the new international signing period, with a deal valued at around $3.8 million.
Ashigen, who initially signed with the Yankees, decided to cancel that contract and join the Mets instead. This signing is considered a major win for the Mets, as MLB Pipeline ranks Ashigen as the No. 2 international prospect. They highlight his unique left-handed swing, noting his ability to generate over 110 mph exit velocity and consistently make strong contact during games. Evaluators are impressed by his hand speed and the power potential his frame suggests, projecting continued development as he matures.
MLB Pipeline assigns Ashigen a 60 power and 55 defense rating, praising his quick reaction time and speed, although they classify his arm strength as average at this stage. This move follows the Mets’ signing of another top shortstop prospect, Elian Peña, who joined the team in January 2025 with a $5 million franchise-record bonus. Peña, after a promising first year in the Dominican Summer League, currently ranks as the Mets’ No. 9 prospect according to SNY’s Joe DeMayo.
Fan Take: This surge in acquiring elite international talent signals a bold strategy by the Mets to build a powerhouse farm system, which could reshape the future of the franchise. For baseball fans, it’s exciting to see such promising young players potentially rise to stardom and elevate the competitive level of the sport globally.
