Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old Japanese right-hander, is now available for signing by Major League Baseball teams as a free agent. The Chiba Lotte Marines announced their decision on Nov. 9, citing the need to make way for new talent.
As an international amateur due to his age, Sasaki’s contract will be subject to the minor league bonus pools usually allocated for younger Latin American prospects. Teams have until January 23 at 5 p.m. Eastern to sign him.
Sasaki has impressed scouts with his impressive fastball and strikeout abilities. He went 10-5 with a 2.35 ERA in 18 games this year, striking out 129 hitters. His career record stands at 29-15 with a 2.10 ERA over four seasons.
Multiple teams are vying for Sasaki’s signature, including the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks. The Los Angeles Angels also showed interest when Shohei Ohtani signed with them in December 2016, reportedly receiving a $2.315 million signing bonus.
Sasaki will be represented by Joel Wolfe of Wasserman Media Group and is expected to become one of the most sought-after pitchers on the market. He expressed gratitude for the Marines’ support, stating he aims to work his way up from his minor contract to achieve his full potential in baseball.
The posting period runs until January 15, with pool amounts varying widely among teams.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42873728/hard-throwing-pitcher-roki-sasaki-officially-posted-mlb-teams