Who is Tom Apfelbaum, the German pitcher signed by the Dodgers?

Tom Apfelbaum is a 22-year-old German pitcher who can throw his fastball into the mid-90s and recently represented Germany in the U18 World Cup.

Which international prospects signed with MLB teams in 2026?

Notable international prospects include German pitcher Tom Apfelbaum (Dodgers), Japanese outfielder Kotaro Tsunematsu (Cubs), Dominican infielder Felix LeBron (White Sox), and Italian infielder Patrick Silva (Phillies).

What is significant about Patrick Silva's signing with the Phillies?

Patrick Silva, a 15-year-old Italian infielder, signed with the Phillies and has already played professionally in Italy's top baseball league, Serie A.

Home / Sports / Germany's New Baseball Hope Joins Dodgers

Germany's New Baseball Hope Joins Dodgers

30 Jan

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Summary

Tom Apfelbaum, a German native, signed with the Dodgers.
Felix LeBron, a Dominican infielder, boasts significant upside.
Patrick Silva, just 15, played professionally in Italy's top league.

Germany's New Baseball Hope Joins Dodgers

The 2026 international signing period, which began on January 15th, has brought several compelling prospects into MLB organizations. Among them is Tom Apfelbaum, a 22-year-old German pitcher who can throw his fastball into the mid-90s. His father's extensive involvement in European baseball coaching highlights Apfelbaum's strong roots in the sport, as he most recently represented Germany in the U18 World Cup in Japan.

Further international talent includes Kotaro Tsunematsu, a Japanese outfielder who opted for a baseball career over investment banking. From the Dominican Republic, infielder Felix LeBron signed with the White Sox, drawing comparisons to Noelvi Marte due to his bat speed and athleticism. The Phillies have also made significant international signings, notably 15-year-old Italian infielder Patrick Silva, who played in Italy's top professional league despite his young age, and Alexandre Moreti, a Brazilian-born pitcher.