Roki Sasaki to Dodgers Unlikely? One Former GM Says So
Japanese-born pitcher Roki Sasaki’s arrival to the Major Leagues is highly anticipated. But, what is even more intriguing is which team will land the international free agent.
With two Japanese natives — Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto — on their roster, the Dodgers seem like the inevitable choice for Sasaki. However, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden is not convinced Los Angeles will acquire Sasaki.
“Although the Dodgers are interested in Sasaki and some in the industry have touted them as the favorites to land him, I don’t think that’s the case,” Bowden wrote. “In fact, based on my conversations with league sources, including front-office decision-makers who are optimistic their chances of signing Sasaki are just as strong as any team, I think it’s unlikely he’ll end up with the Dodgers.”
Bowden’s reasoning against the Dodgers as a potential landing spot for Sasaki lies in finances. The right-hander will not be arbitration-eligible until winter 2028, and free agency will not be an option until the 2030-31 offseason. To maximize his income, Sasaki will utilize endorsements. However, deals may be hard to find with two other Japanese-born players on the roster, says Bowden.
“In Los Angeles, he’d be in the shadow of both Ohtani and Yamamoto, which would lessen his endorsement ceiling,” Bowden wrote. “Yamamoto has experienced this to a degree, as being on the same team as Ohtani has led to Kodak Senga of the New York Mets drawing more endorsement deals than Yamamoto, according to a league source.”
In addition to limited endorsement opportunities, the reigning World Series champions are in the spotlight. The Dodgers’ large media presence, especially in Japan, may be overwhelming for a rookie adjusting to a new league, according to Bowden.
“With the Dodgers, Sasaki would also encounter the massive Japanese media presence — as high as 25 to 35 people — that regularly covers the team,” Bowden said. “While he’ll surely be closely watched wherever he signs, that level of attention is not the best situation for a young, developing pitcher.”
Despite these concerns, the Dodgers will continue their pursuit for Sasaki. They remain the heavy favorites around the industry.
Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
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