(LOS ANGELES) – Joseph Deng Thon, a 17 year old from South Sudan, has made history by becoming the first player from his country to sign a professional baseball contract. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 185 pounds, the right handed pitcher has quickly become a promising name in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ minor league system.
Although still far from playing in Major League Baseball (MLB), Deng has already attracted attention for his powerful fastball, which was clocked at 95 miles per hour at the time of his signing. He joined the Dodgers organisation in January and is currently part of the Dominican Summer League (DSL) team. However, he is yet to make his debut appearance in a game.
Deng’s journey from South Sudan to the doorstep of MLB is inspiring many, especially in South Sudan and among diaspora communities. His rapid rise underscores the global reach of baseball and the potential for talent to emerge from non traditional regions.
The Dodgers and their fan base have taken notice. Though it will take time for Deng to climb through the ranks to reach Dodger Stadium, there is growing excitement around his potential.
