MLB
Dodgers no longer sure thing to sign Roki Sasaki
The wrangling to sign Roki Sasaki gets murky as MLB insider predicts not one but two Dodger rivals to lure him away from LA.
The pursuit of Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation, has taken unexpected turns, leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers less certain of securing his talents. Sasaki, renowned for his blistering fastball and a perfect game in April 2022, has become the most coveted international prospect in recent memory.
The Dodgers, having recently acquired Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, seemed poised to add Sasaki to their roster. However, the complexities of MLB’s international signing rules, which limit teams to their designated bonus pools, have leveled the playing field. Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, emphasized his client’s priorities: “He’s not coming here just to be rich or to get a huge contract. He wants to be great. He wants to be one of the greatest ever.”
Recent reports suggest that the San Diego Padres and the New York Yankees have emerged as formidable contenders for Sasaki’s signature. The Yankees' rich history with Japanese players, including Masahiro Tanaka—Sasaki’s childhood idol—offers a compelling narrative. Meanwhile, the Padres boast the presence of Yu Darvish, who has taken on a mentor role for Sasaki during their time with Team Japan. Darvish’s influence could sway Sasaki’s decision, especially given his reported disappointment over Ohtani and Yamamoto choosing the Dodgers last season.
Adding to the intrigue, Sasaki has conducted in-person meetings with several MLB teams, including the Cubs, Giants, Mets, Rangers, and the aforementioned Dodgers, Padres, and Yankees. This broad interest underscores his exceptional talent and the strategic considerations each team must weigh within the constraints of their international bonus pools.
As the January 15 international signing period approaches, the baseball world watches with bated breath. Sasaki’s decision will not only impact the fortunes of the team he chooses but also reshape the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
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