The next Japanese-born superstar is on his way to the Major Leagues. Starting pitcher Roki Sasaki is going to be posted this offseason and will draw interest from all 30 teams.
The Dodgers will have two Japanese-born players on their roster for nearly a decade. Starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto and designated hitter Shohei Ohtani each played their first seasons with Los Angeles this year. Ohtani and Yamamoto have grown the Dodgers’ popularity in Japan, which is one of the reasons Los Angeles looks like a perfect fit for Sasaki.
“If I were a star Japanese player, I’d want to be a Dodger, too,” one MLB insider told the New York Post.
Jon Heyman of the New York Post added: “It will be a surprise if Sasaki isn’t a Dodger.”
Having two Japanese-born players already on the roster offers an array of advantages for Sasaki.
The Dodgers organization has experience developing international players — especially in their rookie season, in Yamamoto’s case. Additionally, Sasaki could benefit from the mentorship of Ohtani and Yamamoto.
The trio were teammates on Team Japan at the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
However, Ohtani said he will not try to recruit Sasaki.
Despite the advantages of joining the Dodgers, it is not a guarantee that Sasaki will sign with the reigning World Series champions.
There has been speculation that Ohtani and Yamamoto’s presence may limit Sasaki’s endorsement opportunities.
Also, Los Angeles has limited funds in their international bonus pool, which weakens their chances of landing Sasaki.
The 23-year-old has garnered attention from a number of MLB teams, including the San Diego Padres. It will be a battle this offseason to acquire the four-season Nippon Professional Baseball League veteran.
Sasaki is expected to be part of the next international signing class and will not sign with a team until after Jan. 15.
