Despite being just 23 years old, the six-foot-two right-handed pitcher has already established himself as one of the top pitchers globally. In 2024, he achieved a record of 10 wins and 5 losses with an impressive ERA of 2.35 in 18 games, striking out 129 batters across 111 innings. Known as the “Monster of the Reiwa Era,” his career stats are remarkable, boasting an ERA of only 2.02 and 524 strikeouts in 414 2/3 innings. Sasaki initially caught the attention of MLB executives by breaking Shohei Ohtani’s record for the fastest pitch thrown by a Japanese high school player at 101 mph. His outstanding performance continued as he pitched a perfect game against the Orix Buffaloes in April 2022, achieving a new world record with 13 straight strikeouts between the first and fifth innings. Sasaki’s exceptional talent was further highlighted when he pitched another eight perfect innings in his next start, striking out 14 batters. His prowess was recognized on an international level when he contributed to Samurai Japan’s victory in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. With an impressive fastball reaching 102.5 mph and a deadly splitter, Sasaki’s pitching has been nearly unstoppable. His former manager, teammates, and baseball experts all praise his exceptional skills and potential. Notable for his incredible velocity and pitching abilities, Sasaki’s upcoming free agency presents a unique situation due to the restrictions on international bonus pool money for young players like him.
In a foreign league recognized by MLB. When Sasaki, who has been posted earlier than usual, eventually signs, his contract will likely be closer to the $2.315 million deal signed by Ohtani with the Angels than the $325 million contract Yamamoto agreed with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year at 25. “He’d get a crazy contract, but rules are rules,” explained Coskrey. “Sasaki probably has a higher ceiling than Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and given his young age, he could command a similar salary.” It’s a testament to Sasaki’s eagerness to start his career in the US that he chooses to bet on himself rather than wait for a potentially more lucrative deal in the future. “I can only express my gratitude to the team, who have supported my ambitions of challenging the MLB since I joined, and have now allowed my posting,” he stated in November. “I will strive to become the best player in the world from a minor league background, fulfilling the expectations of those who have backed me.”
Which team will he join? According to his agent, Joel Wolfe, over half of MLB teams scouted Sasaki in the past year. The Dodgers have emerged as potential frontrunners. “He’s obviously a top priority for us,” noted Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. “We’ll do everything we can, knowing that many other teams are vying for him.” Among these contenders are the San Diego Padres, who are actively pursuing the Japanese star. “We are serious contenders,” said manager Mike Shildt. “We fully expect to be in the mix and ultimately have Sasaki become a Padre.”
Coskrey highlights the influence of Yu Darvish on young Japanese players in the Padres. “Darvish is a hero figure for many Japanese players,” he remarked. “He mentored them during the World Baseball Classic; he was very popular. Ohtani is revered, but Darvish holds a special place. So, don’t count out the Padres.” The race for Sasaki’s signature also includes the New York Yankees, Mets, and Red Sox. Sasaki reportedly plans to wait until the 2025 international amateur signing period opens on January 15, leaving his destination uncertain. As one of Japan’s most promising talents since Ohtani, Roki Sasaki is set to make a significant impact on the MLB.
