Roki Sasaki: A Rising Star Eyeing MLB
As the baseball world turns its attention to the upcoming Major League Baseball offseason, one name drawing significant interest is that of Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old right-handed flamethrower, currently playing for the Chiba Lotte Marines, has been made available for bidding this winter, marking a potential seismic shift in his career as he eyes a move to MLB.
Known for his impressive fastball-splitter combination with a fastball consistently clocking in the upper-90s, Sasaki has become a standout in the National Professional Baseball (NPB) league in Japan. Despite facing challenges in the 2024 season, including shoulder fatigue and a torn oblique which hampered his velocity, Sasaki’s talent and potential remain undeniable.
At 23, Sasaki attributes much of his success to his unique pitching style, characterized by a strategic reliance on fastballs and splitters. Over his career in Japan, Sasaki has maintained an impressive record, averaging only two walks per nine innings across more than 414 innings pitched. In a testament to his command and power, he has surrendered a mere 16 home runs over his career in the NPB. Moreover, Sasaki’s exceptional achievement of recording a perfect game with 19 strikeouts in 2022 further underscores his potential.
The Challenge and Opportunity Ahead
Sasaki’s posting comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. Although the NPB league-wide strikeout rate was 18.7% in 2024, MLB’s strikeout rates have been increasing steadily, rising from 18.6% in 2011 to 22.6%. The transition for any player moving from the NPB to MLB involves adjusting to this dynamic environment and potentially facing more aggressive batting lineups across a longer season.
A key factor in Sasaki’s transition will be the classification of his status in MLB. Due to his age and lack of service time, Sasaki will be classified as an amateur free agent within the league. The international amateur signing period concludes on December 15, with another opening on January 15. During this period, the interest surrounding Sasaki is expected to peak, as eight MLB teams navigate their $7.55 million bonus pool for the 2025 cycle. These teams also have the opportunity to trade for up to 60% more, creating intense competition for Sasaki’s signature.
There’s already interest and excitement among teams seeking to bolster their rosters with an arm like Sasaki’s. However, advisories have been issued to temper enthusiasm with caution. Front offices have been urged against rushing into long-term contract extensions for international players, as the adjustment period to MLB can vary significantly.
In High Demand
The anticipation and excitement of potentially acquiring a talent like Sasaki come with the understanding of the inherent risks associated with such a move. Not every player makes a seamless transition from the NPB to MLB, and teams are mindful of the developmental steps and acclimatization that Sasaki will require. Yet, Sasaki’s potential upside makes him an enticing prospect for teams willing to invest in his future.
With Roki Sasaki on the brink of embarking on a new chapter in his career, the coming months hold significant implications for both him and the MLB teams eager to secure his services. As the international signing period draws near, Sasaki’s journey will be closely watched by fans and scouts hoping to see another talented pitcher make his mark in Major League Baseball. The baseball world awaits, eager to see how this young star evolves on the grandest stage.