Dodgers and Padres Emerge as Frontrunners in Roki Sasaki Sweepstakes

The 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation is weighing offers from multiple MLB teams, with a decision expected before mid-January 2025.

The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres are considered the leading contenders to sign Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who has met with several MLB teams during the offseason.
Sasaki, known for his 100+ mph fastball and historic perfect game in Japan, is expected to finalize his MLB contract before the international signing period ends in mid-January 2025.
The Dodgers' strong history with Japanese players and their international reputation make them a favorite, though their deep pitching rotation could limit Sasaki's immediate role as an ace.
The Padres offer Sasaki a clearer path to becoming the team's ace, along with mentorship from Yu Darvish and guidance from Hideo Nomo, strengthening their recruitment pitch.
Other teams, including the Yankees, Mets, Cubs, and Tigers, are also in the mix, but financial constraints and competitive factors make them less likely to land Sasaki.