As one of the most highly anticipated and unique free agencies in Major League Baseball history nears its conclusion within the next 10 days, the baseball world eagerly awaits the decision of Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old right-handed pitcher from Japan, whose talent has been revered since his teenage years, is set to choose his destination for the start of his big-league career.
Since his NPB team, the Chiba Lotte Marines, posted him on Dec. 10, the process has gradually unfolded over the past month. Sasaki has reportedly narrowed down his options to three finalists: the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays.
If you haven’t been following Sasaki’s journey through free agency, there’s still time to catch up before he makes his decision. Here’s everything you need to know about his background, unique situation, and the teams vying for his signature.
Who is Roki Sasaki?
Sasaki first gained attention as a standout high school pitcher in Japan, breaking records previously held by Shohei Ohtani. After opting to start his professional career in Japan with the Marines, Sasaki quickly made an impact, excelling as a rookie and even throwing a perfect game with 19 strikeouts as a 20-year-old.
His dominance continued, especially in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and his subsequent NPB seasons. Sasaki’s exceptional velocity, devastating splitter, and developing slider have set him apart as a top talent. However, he still has room for growth in terms of durability, workload, and refining his arsenal for the MLB level.
What makes Sasaki’s free agency unique?
Sasaki’s decision to enter MLB as an international amateur at 23 sets him apart from traditional free agents. Unlike players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who waited until 25 and secured a massive deal, Sasaki’s earning potential is limited by international bonus pool restrictions.
Despite the potential for a larger bonus, Sasaki’s cost remains significantly lower than his true value on an uncapped market. This makes him an unprecedented bargain for any team that signs him, offering immediate impact at a fraction of the cost compared to other international prospects.
Which teams are in the running to sign Sasaki?
While initially, several teams showed interest in Sasaki, the field has narrowed down to three finalists: the Dodgers, Padres, and Blue Jays. All three teams have made pitches to Sasaki, with each offering a unique appeal for the talented pitcher.
Recent reports suggest that Sasaki has visited Toronto, San Diego, and spent time in Los Angeles, indicating a thorough evaluation process before making his decision. The Padres and Dodgers, in particular, have been considered frontrunners due to their Japanese presence and track record in attracting top talent.
Toronto’s late entry into the race comes as a surprise, but the organization’s pursuit of elite talent, including previous bids for Ohtani and Soto, demonstrates their commitment to building a competitive roster.
When will Sasaki sign?
While Sasaki may not immediately agree to a deal when the signing period opens, he must make a decision before the window closes on Jan. 23. The three finalists are expected to finalize their offers based on Sasaki’s choice, potentially involving trades for additional pool space to accommodate his bonus.
As the process nears its conclusion, all eyes are on Sasaki’s decision and the impact it will have on the teams involved. The unique circumstances of his free agency make this one of the most intriguing storylines in MLB history.