Rintaro Sasaki Chooses Stanford Over NPB, Eyes MLB Future

Japanese high school baseball sensation Rintaro Sasaki signs with Stanford, bypassing the NPB draft in a move that could expedite his path to the MLB.

Rintaro Sasaki, known for breaking Japan's high school home run record, will join Stanford's baseball team in 2025.
Sasaki's decision to play college baseball in the U.S. is seen as a unique path to potentially joining the MLB sooner.
The 18-year-old slugger sought advice from MLB stars Shohei Ohtani and Yusei Kikuchi, both alumni of his high school.
Stanford, having reached the College World Series three times consecutively, looks forward to Sasaki's power bat boosting their lineup.
Sasaki's choice reflects a growing trend of international prospects considering U.S. college sports as a stepping stone to professional leagues.