Japanese-born pitcher Roki Sasaki’s arrival to the Main Leagues is extremely anticipated. However, what’s much more intriguing is which staff will land the worldwide free agent.
With two Japanese natives — Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto — on their roster, the Dodgers seem to be the inevitable alternative for Sasaki. Nevertheless, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden will not be satisfied Los Angeles will purchase Sasaki.
“Though the Dodgers are fascinated with Sasaki and a few within the business have touted them because the favorites to land him, I don’t assume that’s the case,” Bowden wrote. “In actual fact, based mostly on my conversations with league sources, together with front-office decision-makers who’re optimistic their probabilities of signing Sasaki are simply as robust as any staff, I believe it’s unlikely he’ll find yourself with the Dodgers.”
Bowden’s reasoning in opposition to the Dodgers as a possible touchdown spot for Sasaki lies in funds. The suitable-hander is not going to be arbitration-eligible till winter 2028, and free company is not going to be an possibility till the 2030-31 offseason. To maximise his earnings, Sasaki will make the most of endorsements. Nevertheless, offers could also be laborious to search out with two different Japanese-born gamers on the roster, says Bowden.
“In Los Angeles, he’d be within the shadow of each Ohtani and Yamamoto, which might reduce his endorsement ceiling,” Bowden wrote. “Yamamoto has skilled this to a level, as being on the identical staff as Ohtani has led to Kodak Senga of the New York Mets drawing extra endorsement offers than Yamamoto, based on a league supply.”
Along with restricted endorsement alternatives, the reigning World Collection champions are within the highlight. The Dodgers’ massive media presence, particularly in Japan, could also be overwhelming for a rookie adjusting to a brand new league, based on Bowden.
“With the Dodgers, Sasaki would additionally encounter the large Japanese media presence — as excessive as 25 to 35 folks — that recurrently covers the staff,” Bowden mentioned. “Whereas he’ll certainly be intently watched wherever he indicators, that stage of consideration will not be the most effective scenario for a younger, growing pitcher.”
Regardless of these issues, the Dodgers will proceed their pursuit for Sasaki. They continue to be the heavy favorites across the business.
Picture Credit score: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports activities
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