As the 2024 MLB season kicks off, eyes are already on next offseason. Eight teams scouted pitcher Roki Sasaki's impressive debut for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan. Among them were the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and New York Yankees.
Sasaki, dubbed the best pitcher outside MLB, showcased his talent with seven strikeouts in five innings. At 22, he's ahead of former teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto's development at the same age.
But the decision to move to MLB isn't just about the money. If Sasaki waits until he's 25, he can land a massive free-agent contract right away. However, if he comes over this offseason, he'll go through six years of team control before reaching free agency at 29.
Shohei Ohtani's move at 23 to the Los Angeles Angels serves as a precedent. He received a modest signing bonus but landed a huge contract later. Posting Sasaki this offseason would reduce fees for his team, the Marines, but it would limit Sasaki's signing bonus due to MLB's rules on international players.
Despite the financial implications, Sasaki is eager to join MLB teams this offseason. While the Dodgers are seen as favorites, other East Coast teams have also signed Japanese talent recently. With a fastball hitting 100 mph and a deadly splitter, Sasaki's arrival is eagerly anticipated by MLB fans.