Atlanta Braves’ No. 1 international prospect debuts, No. 2 thrives

THE Atlanta Braves maybe take advantage of the Break of the stars, but some of their minor league affiliates are at the heart of the summer baseball league, including two of their top international prospects. For years, Atlanta has been known for attracting some of the top international prospects, such as the legendary Andruw Jones, Javy Lopez, Ozzy Albies and Ronald Acuña Jr.

The case is no different in 2024, as they have a representative in the Florida Complex League and the Dominican Summer League; first, let’s look at a player who consistently dominates the FCL.

Flying Luis Guanipa is Atlanta’s 18th-ranked prospect in the minor league system. The 18-year-old Venezuelan has been exceptional, batting .282/.346/.451. Although he’s listed at just 5-11, he plays with a big bat and a big glove, as seen below.

His arrival in the major leagues is not expected until 2027, but he continues to play an exceptional game. In addition, the Braves’ top international prospect made his debut Tuesday in the Dominican Summer League.

DSL Braves leadoff hitter Jose Perdomo made his entrance felt in his first at-bat in uniform, a welcome sign for fans as seen above.

The highly touted Perdomo is Major League Baseball’s third-ranked international prospect and the Braves’ sixth prospect in their minor league system. He hasn’t seen action since being signed by the organization in early January, as he was on the 60-day injured list with a hamstring injury. MLB.com’s full scouting report on Atlanta’s top international prospect can be found here:

“If you’re looking for one of the best hitters in this class, look no further than Perdomo. The teenager’s batting skills are above average and he ranks among the top hitting prospects in the class.

He has a good feel for the strike zone and his swing continues to improve. Scouts have noted his ability to throw slow pitches and fastballs to all fields with relative ease, and he has a knack for making hard contact. He rarely gets thrown out and always puts the ball in play. With more runner potential, Perdomo could be a threat on the basepaths in the future.

Defensively, Perdomo is a fundamentally solid shortstop with enough range and arm strength to stick at the position as he progresses through the minor leagues.

The 5-foot-11, 180-pound 17-year-old still has a long way to go to reach the big leagues, but his early impressions are promising as the organization’s top international prospect.