Roki Sasaki Joins Dodgers on Minor League Deal

Roki Sasaki, a promising Japanese pitcher known for his fastball exceeding 100 mph, has signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers after being posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines and a 45-day negotiation window. Despite competitive offers from the San Diego Padres, who offered a larger signing bonus, and the Toronto Blue Jays, Sasaki chose the Dodgers for their successful track record and opportunity to work in a six-man rotation. The Dodgers, historically a desirable MLB team for Japanese players like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, continue to build a formidable roster with Sasaki's addition. This signing aligns with their strategy to bolster their team as they aim to defend their World Series title.