Dodgers Push for Japan’s rising star Roki Sasaki: Could this be MLB’s Next big move?

The Los Angeles Dodgers are making waves in the MLB offseason as they aggressively pursue Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitching sensation from Japan. Known for his blazing fastball that exceeds 100 mph (160.93 km/h) and his devastating splitter, Sasaki has captured the attention of multiple MLB teams, sparking intense competition to secure his signature.

With Sasaki poised to make his decision during the 2025 international signing period, the Dodgers are positioning themselves as strong contenders, potentially reshaping their roster and the league’s dynamics.

ALSO SEE: Who will Win Super Bowl 2025 MVP? Favorites, Prize Details, and How the Award is chosen

Why is Roki Sasaki so coveted in the MLB?

Elite Pitching Skills:

Sasaki boasts a rare combination of velocity, precision, and pitch variety, including a high-speed fastball, a sharp splitter, and a deceptive slider. His performances in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league have cemented his reputation as one of the best pitchers in the world.

Historic Achievements:

Sasaki made headlines in 2022 by throwing a perfect game with 19 strikeouts, showcasing his ability to dominate on the mound. Such accomplishments have fueled comparisons to MLB stars like Shohei Ohtani.

Dodgers’ aggressive pursuit of the Japanese player

The Dodgers recently held an in-person meeting with Sasaki and his agent, Joel Wolfe, marking a pivotal step in their recruitment efforts.

• Dodgers’ Priority: Industry insiders report that Sasaki is a “major priority” for the Dodgers as they seek to bolster their pitching rotation.
• Competitive Market: The Dodgers face stiff competition from other teams, including the Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Rangers, Giants, and Padres. Despite this, Los Angeles is seen as a strong contender, with Sasaki reportedly favoring their offer.

What’s next for Sasaki and the Dodgers?

Sasaki is expected to announce his decision during the 2025 international signing period, which begins on January 15. If signed, he would join a growing number of Japanese stars in MLB, potentially teaming up with Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

Due to MLB’s international signing rules for players under 25, Sasaki’s initial contract will be limited financially, with signing bonuses capped between $5 million and $7.5 million.

Once Sasaki completes his initial contract, he will be eligible for significantly higher earnings, making his move to MLB a strategic step toward long-term financial success.

Adding Sasaki to their roster would not only strengthen the Dodgers’ pitching rotation but also reinforce their position as one of MLB’s most competitive teams.