Roki Sasaki, the pitching phenomenon from Japan, officially joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, embarking on his much-anticipated Major League Baseball (MLB) career. The announcement, made public on January 23, has already set the Dodger fanbase abuzz with excitement as they prepare to welcome the 23-year-old ace.
At his introductory press conference, Sasaki confidently expressed, "I know a lot of people have been saying I should have waited two years. But I have no idea how I’ll be in two years. There’s no guarantee. More than the money, I felt it was more important to spend the time here." This statement reflects his desire to seize the moment rather than wait for what could be uncertain opportunities down the line.
Many analysts believe Sasaki could have secured staggering financial rewards had he delayed his entry to MLB until he turned 25, when he would have been eligible for significant contract offers. His rookie deal, much less lucrative, includes a signing bonus of $6.5 million and will see him earning the rookie salary during his initial season. Nevertheless, Sasaki is intent on prioritizing play over potential paydays.
A star player with the Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki compiled impressive numbers over his four seasons, with a record of 30 wins and 15 losses alongside a phenomenal 2.02 earned run average (ERA). He also made headlines for pitching a perfect game back in April 2022, where he struck out 19 batters, including 13 consecutively, showcasing his extraordinary talent. Reflecting on this achievement, he noted, "Putting on this Dodgers uniform today I am reminded myjourney is just about to begin. And it makes me feel more focused than ever."
The 6-foot-2 right-hander has also garnered attention for being part of the Samurai Japan team, which clinched victory over the United States at the 2023 World Baseball Classic. This experience of competing on such significant stages built his resilience and readiness for his upcoming transition to MLB. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with his fellow countrymen, Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, stating, "I'm going toward making sure I can stand side by side with them."
Sasaki recognizes the difference between the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league and MLB, admitting, "I’m lacking in every way. If I had to pick one, there will be more games than in Japan, so I’ll really have to adjust there." He anticipates the increased pressure and the rigorous schedule, demonstrating foresight about the challenges he will face on this new stage. Sasaki also shared past challenges, stating, "I had some minor injuries in Japan but it wasn’t a result of team policy or anything like, I need to look after it with my own team."
The Dodgers, led by President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, intend to place Sasaki right within their pitching rotation from the start of the upcoming season. The Dodgers open their season with two games against the Chicago Cubs at the iconic Tokyo Dome on March 18-19. With this pivotal debut set on home soil, expectations are high for Sasaki, both from the management and ardent fans.
Wearing jersey number 11, which he previously donned with the Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki remarked: "Putting on this jersey today, I feel like I’m starting all over again." This statement encapsulates his feelings of renewal and excitement as he begins this new chapter of his career amid the promising backdrop of Los Angeles.
The appeal of the Dodgers was palpable for Sasaki. He cut down his options among 20 pursued teams to three—significantly including the World Series champions. The allure of not only the team’s success but also the prospect of growing individually within their ranks was instrumental to his decision-making process. "So many MLB teams reached out to me when I still don’t have much of a track record. To choose one was a very difficult decision since I found every team appealing in their own way," he explained.
On the social front, Sasaki has been adapting swiftly to life in Los Angeles, marking his presence at notable sporting events, including sitting courtside at a Lakers game where he interacted with NBA star LeBron James and fellow Japanese player Rui Hachimura. Such engagements signify his cultural integration and potential to become not just another player, but also a face of the franchise.
With the upcoming season drawing closer, anticipation is mounting among Dodgers fans, hoping to witness Sasaki's debut and his stellar performances. His past achievements combined with his resolute mindset promise to add another compelling layer to the Dodgers' pitching lineup, reinforcing their goal of championship contention.
The backdrop of Sasaki's transition—a young man who once faced unfathomable loss due to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami—makes his new beginning even more inspiring. Since then, he has invested tremendous effort to hone his skills and achieve this MLB dream. Now, all eyes are on this pitching prodigy as he steps up to the major leagues, transforming challenges sparked by the past and channeling them toward future success.