This offseason, the spotlight is shifting from Juan Soto to a new name creating ripples in the baseball world: Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation has become the talk of the league, with MLB teams poised to bid on this rare talent as soon as the posting process begins. The excitement is tangible as Sasaki’s Japanese team announced his availability, giving MLB franchises the green light to make their move on one of Japan’s most promising pitchers.
Though the exact start date for his posting remains uncertain, once it begins, Sasaki will have a 45-day window to sign with a team. Due to his age and limited international experience, Sasaki falls under certain signing restrictions, meaning we won’t see a record-breaking contract in the vein of Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Instead, Sasaki’s journey may echo Shohei Ohtani’s path, potentially starting with a minor-league contract before quickly advancing to the major leagues.
The Dodgers: A Front-Runner for Roki Sasaki?
Sasaki’s age and international experience place him under the 2024 international bonus pool—a factor that gives a significant advantage to teams with a hefty bonus allocation. And in that regard, the Los Angeles Dodgers stand out. With $2.5 million left in their international signing pool, they’re in prime position to make a compelling offer for Sasaki, especially given their successful track record with Japanese players and their commitment to long-term contracts.
Los Angeles has consistently been a top destination for international talent, providing Japanese players like Ohtani with a smooth transition to the American stage. The Dodgers’ recent World Series win also adds to their appeal, giving them the championship allure that a young star like Sasaki might find irresistible.
A Strategic Leap or Premature Move?
The question remains whether Sasaki is truly ready to follow in Ohtani’s legendary footsteps, or if he risks making the leap prematurely. While Sasaki is undeniably talented, he’s young and hasn’t amassed the extensive international experience that would normally set up a player for MLB stardom. However, with his record of electrifying performances, Sasaki has shown he may possess the resilience needed to adapt and succeed on the MLB stage.
One thing is clear: whichever team lands Sasaki will be getting a young pitcher who not only holds immense potential but also represents the future of international baseball talent. With the Dodgers leading the charge, MLB fans may soon witness the start of a new era, with Sasaki poised to follow his idol Ohtani and make his mark on the American game.
