MLB Rumors: Favorite To Sign Japanese Star Roki Sasaki Revealed

November 06, 2024 ,

The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as the clear favorites to sign Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki if he is posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines this offseason. 

Often reaching 100 mph, and possessing a devastating splitter, the 23-year-old right-hander has dominated in Japan’s NPB with a career 2.02 ERA and over 500 strikeouts since his debut in 2021. 

ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel reports that the Dodgers are “heavily favored” to land Sasaki, noting “indications” that the Chiba Lotte Marines are inclined to grant Sasaki’s request to be posted, which would make him one of the most anticipated free agents in this year’s international class.

However, Sasaki’s move to MLB isn’t without financial limitations due to MLB’s international bonus pool rules. 

Because he is under 25, teams signing him would be restricted by the bonus pool cap, which could limit any signing bonus to under $10 million. If Sasaki is posted before December 15, teams would be able to offer around $2.5 million, while a posting after that date could allow for bonuses up to approximately $7 million. 

McDaniel explains that while the Marines could wait until Sasaki turns 25 in 2026 to avoid these restrictions, “there is growing optimism” that he will make the leap now, fulfilling his ambition to pitch in the United States.

Despite some concerns over a slight dip in velocity this past season, Sasaki's performance remained elite, posting a 2.35 ERA with 129 strikeouts in 111 innings.

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images



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