Introduction
Justin Dean is a professional American baseball outfielder, best known for his patience and versatility in the outfield as he strives to establish himself in the major leagues. In this article we’ll take a detailed look at his salary, MLB journey (including time with the Los Angeles Dodgers), college background, key statistics, and estimate of his net worth.
Early Life & College Career
Justin Emmanuel Dean was born on December 6, 1996, in Mauldin, South Carolina. He attended Mauldin High School and then went on to play college baseball at Lenoir‑Rhyne University in Hickory, North Carolina.
College Highlights:
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As a junior in 2018, Dean started 49 games, posted a batting average of .398, hit 6 home runs and had 36 RBIs, while stealing 14 bases.
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As a sophomore in 2017 he batted .393, hit 3 home runs, and stole 10 bases.
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His freshman season he hit .315 with 2 home runs and 10 stolen bases.
Dean’s strong performance at Lenoir-Rhyne earned him recognition and ultimately led to his selection in the MLB Draft.
Draft & Minor League Journey
Dean was selected in the 17th round (502nd overall) of the 2018 MLB June Amateur Draft by the Atlanta Braves.
In the minors, he built a profile as a plus defender, strong base-stealer, and a consistent contributor:
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Through his Minor League career up to 2025: 2,408 at-bats, batting average ~.252, 39 home runs, 239 stolen bases.
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In 2024, between Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett, he stole 61 bases in 69 attempts over 117 games.
His defensive versatility and speed ultimately caught the attention of the Dodgers.
MLB Debut & Time with the Dodgers
Dean signed a minor-league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on December 13, 2024.
On August 8, 2025, the Dodgers selected his contract and Dean made his major-league debut. According to Baseball-Reference:
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Debut Date: August 8, 2025 (Age 28)
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With the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate (Oklahoma City), before call-up he was batting .274 with 6 home runs, 25 stolen bases in 32 attempts.
At the major league level in 2025:
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He recorded 2 at-bats, 0 hits, and 1 stolen base.
Although his MLB sample is small, his role with the Dodgers has been as a defensive replacement and late-game pinch runner—reflecting his strengths.
Salary & Contract Details
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According to Spotrac, Dean’s contract was listed as 1 year / US$125,000.
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For the 2025 season, his salary is shown as US$208,386 on the Dodgers’ payroll list.
These figures reflect his major league deal and likely include prorated amounts or service time adjustments. Given his 2025 call-up and limited MLB appearances, the salary aligns with rookie / minimum levels rather than star-level contracts.
Net Worth Estimate
Estimating a player’s net worth is imprecise, but available data suggest:
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One source lists his net worth at approximately US$125,000.
Given his minor league years, recent major-league debut, and modest salary, the figure seems plausible though may not capture endorsements or future earnings.
Stats Snapshot
College:
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Junior year: .398 AVG, 6 HR, 36 RBIs, 14 SB.
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Sophomore: .393 AVG, 3 HR, 19 RBIs, 10 SB.
Minor Leagues (career up to 2025):
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Approx .252 AVG, 39 HR, 239 stolen bases in 2,408 AB.
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In 2025 (Triple-A): .289 AVG, .378 OBP, .431 SLG, 6 HR, 27 SB.
Major League (2025):
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2 at-bats, 0 hits, 1 stolen base. AVG .000.
Role & Outlook
Justin Dean’s profile is that of a defense-first outfielder with speed and base-stealing ability. Comments from the Dodgers noted his “plus-plus centre field” capabilities and his utility as a defensive replacement and pinch-runner.
Given his relatively late MLB debut and modest offensive track record, his path likely includes carving out a niche role rather than immediate everyday starter status. His speed, defense and ability to fill multiple outfield positions enhance his value.
Summary Table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Justin Emmanuel Dean |
| Birthdate | December 6, 1996 |
| College | Lenoir-Rhyne University |
| Drafted | 2018, 17th round (Atlanta Braves) |
| MLB Debut | August 8, 2025 (Los Angeles Dodgers) |
| 2025 Salary | Approx US$125,000–208,386 |
| Net Worth Estimate | Approx US$125,000 |
| MLB Stats | .000 AVG (2 AB), 0 HR, 1 SB |
| MiLB Career | ~.252 AVG, 39 HR, 239 SB |
| Role | Defensive OF, pinch-runner, speed specialist |
Conclusion
Justin Dean’s journey is one of perseverance – from a small college program to being drafted in a later round, grinding through the minors, and finally getting his shot in the majors with the Dodgers. His salary and net worth may currently be modest compared to star players, but his value lies in the tools he brings: elite defense, speed on the bases, and flexibility. If he can continue to perform in his role and perhaps improve his offensive contributions, his value and earnings could rise significantly.
