Shota Imanaga tries to convince Roki Sasaki to join the Cubs
- Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitcher, was posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines allowing him to negotiate with MLB teams.
- He is notable for his remarkable pitching achievements, including a perfect game with 19 strikeouts in 2022.
- Sasaki's agent advises him to prioritize career longevity over immediate financial incentives during the recruitment process.
In a significant turn of events for Major League Baseball, Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitching sensation from Japan, was officially posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines, allowing him to pursue a career in the MLB. His agency has confirmed that he is set to begin discussions with interested teams in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Notably, Sasaki was highlighted for one of the most remarkable pitching performances in history, where he achieved a perfect game with 19 strikeouts. This record-setting performance during a game in April 2022 positioned him as an unparalleled talent, attracting substantial attention from MLB teams eager to enhance their pitching rotations with elite talent. Furthermore, Sasaki remains ineligible for a major league contract as a Japanese player under the age of 25, meaning any signing must utilize a team's international bonus pool money. Out of the Mets’ total pool of $6.2 million designated for international signings, a significant amount is already allocated to a 16-year-old shortstop, complicating their pursuit of the young ace. Sasaki's agent has indicated that the monetary aspects of the contract should not be the primary focus for his client, suggesting that Sasaki should consider factors like team success and the potential for long-term growth in his career while making a decision. As the free agency window approaches, Sasaki is expected to sign with a team between January 15 and 22, 2025, ideally to allow him to obtain a work visa in time for spring training. His case draws comparisons to that of Shohei Ohtani, who also transitioned from NPB to MLB through a similar posting system in 2018. However, Sasaki's youth and record-setting credentials place him in a unique position among recent Japanese pitcher imports. The broader implications for both Sasaki and the MLB loom large as teams scramble for an opportunity to secure such a coveted player, setting the stage for potential reshaping of team dynamics in the upcoming season.