Dodgers Sign Japanese Pitcher Roki Sasaki, Raising Questions About Baseball's Competitive Balance

The Dodgers' acquisition of Sasaki and other high-profile players highlights their financial dominance and sparks renewed calls for MLB salary reforms.

• The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki to a $6.5 million bonus under MLB's international signing rules, securing him for six years of team control.
• Sasaki, 23, has been a dominant force in Japanese baseball, posting a 2.10 ERA and 505 strikeouts over four seasons, though concerns about his durability persist.
• The Dodgers also signed left-handed reliever Tanner Scott for four years and $72 million, further strengthening their already deep roster.
• Critics argue the Dodgers' financial power and ability to attract top talent exacerbate competitive disparities in MLB, renewing discussions about a potential salary cap.
• Other teams, like the Toronto Blue Jays, made moves to stay competitive, including acquiring outfielder Anthony Santander and reliever Jeff Hoffman after missing out on Sasaki.

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