Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki is drawing significant interest from multiple Major League Baseball teams as his posting window nears its end. With a January 23rd deadline to sign an MLB contract, several high-profile clubs have reportedly met with the coveted right-hander.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, previously considered frontrunners, are among six teams confirmed to have engaged with Sasaki. The other five are the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and San Francisco Giants. These meetings signal the start of a critical evaluation period, with Sasaki expected to reduce his list of suitors soon.
Sasaki's posting from the Chiba Lotte Marines on December 9th initiated a 45-day negotiation period. Although he can't officially sign until the international amateur signing period begins on January 15th, the competition for his signature is intense. Despite being 23, which subjects him to international bonus pool restrictions, he's poised to land a contract representing a substantial discount compared to other international stars.
Interestingly, all six teams that have met with Sasaki rank among the top 10 in MLB payrolls, although financial considerations may not be the sole driving force. The San Diego Padres, while not confirmed to have met with Sasaki, are also seen as a potential destination.
Sasaki's motivations remain largely undisclosed, with factors like media exposure, pitcher development, the presence of Japanese teammates, and the opportunity to become a team's ace all possibly playing a role. His agent has acknowledged the lack of clarity in Sasaki's preferences, suggesting a carefully guarded approach in the current stage of the process.
