Roki Sasaki Set to Be Posted by Chiba Lotte

Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki is set to be posted to Major League Baseball (MLB) during the upcoming Winter Meetings, opening a 45-day negotiation window for MLB teams. At just 23 years old, Sasaki is expected to be a highly sought-after international amateur free agent, classified under strict bonus pool limits due to his age. He boasts impressive statistics from his time in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), including a 2.10 ERA and a fastball that reaches 100 mph, positioning him as a potential ace in the MLB. The Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets are among the teams considered top contenders for his signature. Should no deals be reached, Sasaki will return to play for the Chiba Lotte Marines in NPB for the 2025 season. His impending posting is anticipated to significantly impact team rosters across the league as franchises vie for this elite talent.