The Los Angeles Dodgers made a notable addition on the international market by signing Ezequiel Melbourne, a switch-hitting shortstop from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, as part of their 2026 international class.

Melbourne, who begins his professional career at just 16 years old, joins one of baseball’s most respected development systems with a lengthy runway to grow into his tools.

Santo Domingo has produced thousands of professional players over the decades, and Melbourne now become the latest talent from the Dominican capital to enter the professional ranks.

He trained at the Jaime Ramos Academy, a well-known program within MLB’s Trainer Partnership Program that has consistently prepared young prospects for the transition to professional baseball. The Dodgers identified Melbourne early as a player whose physical projection and polish made him a strong long-term investment.

Offensively, Melbourne stands out for his ability to hit from both sides of the plate with balance and control. He features a smooth, efficient swing as a left-handed and right-handed hitter, staying centered through his lower half and focusing on driving the ball on a line.

Rather than chasing power, Melbourne shows a patient approach and strong strike-zone awareness, allowing him to make consistent hard contact. As he adds strength to his lean frame, evaluators believe additional extra-base power could naturally emerge.

Defensively, Melbourne’s athleticism gives him a chance to remain at shortstop as he progresses through the minor leagues. He shows a quick first step, soft hands, and fluid glove actions, particularly on balls to his backhand.

His throwing arm is considered solid, and his mechanics help him complete plays efficiently from different angles on the infield dirt.

Melbourne also offers athletic upside on the basepaths. His long legs and smooth stride allow him to cover ground effectively, and with further refinement, he could develop into a consistent stolen-base threat at the lower levels of the Dodgers’ system.

While Melbourne is still in the early stages of his professional journey, his combination of switch-hitting ability, defensive tools, and physical projection aligns well with the Dodgers’ philosophy of identifying and developing high-upside international talent.

The signing adds another intriguing piece to an already deep farm system and reinforces Los Angeles’ commitment to building through the international market.

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