Speculation about the future of the Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki has sparked an intense debate in Major League Baseball offices. The 23-year-old, considered one of the most coveted talents in world baseball, will soon be an international free agent, and several MLB executives suspect that he could have an unofficial agreement to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Rumors and their impact
For months now, executives from different teams have hinted that the Dodgers have strategically set aside their international bonus money to secure Sasaki. These informal accusations have even reached the office of MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, who has attempted to clear up doubts about any violation of the rules. According to Manfred, formal negotiations will not begin until Sasaki is officially released by the Chiba Lotte Marines and the new international signature period opens on January 15, 2025.
Despite this, the narrative has persisted. Sasaki is represented by Joel Wolfewho denied the rumors, calling them “bad manners” on the part of other teams who, according to him, seek to discredit the Dodgers. Wolfe assured that there was no covert agreement and defended his professional integrity.
The context of the controversy
MLB prohibits unofficial agreements with international free agents before they are eligible to sign. However, it is common for these practices to occur in the Latin American market. In Sasaki’s case, the Dodgers currently have $2.5 million available in his 2024 signing bonus, more than any other team. However, once the new signing period begins in 2025, all teams will receive a new allocation, leveling the playing field.
The situation is complicated by recent regulations implemented by MLB to prevent agreements between Major League teams and foreign leagues such as the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)where Sasaki has played with the Marines. These restrictions seek to prevent a team from gaining exclusive access to international talent.
What do the experts say?
Even without concrete evidence, baseball figures have fueled the narrative. Dallas Keuchela former Cy Young winner and Sasaki’s teammate in Japan, mentioned hearing rumors of a “done deal” between Sasaki and the Dodgers.
The appeal of the Dodgers as a destination for Sasaki is no coincidence. The Los Angeles team already has two Japanese stars, Shohei Ohtani y Yoshinobu Yamamotoand has established a reputation as one of the most desirable destinations for international players.
Sasaki’s future
Sasaki, known for his fastball that exceeds 100 miles per hour and his ability to dominate hitters, will be a crucial reinforcement for any team that manages to sign him. Although his signing will only involve a minor league contract due to MLB rules, Sasaki’s potential impact in the Major Leagues could be immense.
Meanwhile, the commissioner’s office has promised to investigate any signs of rule violations. “If there is reason to believe that our rules were violated, we will investigate thoroughly,” Manfred stated.
¿Destino Dodgers?
Although there is no evidence of irregularities, the rumors have not died down. Could Yu Darvish, Sasaki’s close mentor, influence him to sign with the Padres? Or will the lure of joining Ohtani in Los Angeles be enough to tip the balance in the Dodgers’ favor?
