Roki Sasaki: The International Sensation Who Could Shake Up the MLB
The baseball world is abuzz with the news of 23-year-old pitching phenom Roki Sasaki from Japan. Now that he’s been posted, fans can expect to see him take the mound in a big league stadium in 2025. The usual suspects, including the Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Padres, and Mariners, are already being mentioned as potential suitors. However, Jim Allen, a Tokyo-based baseball writer, suggests that smaller market teams might also be in the running for Sasaki’s services.
The Bonus Pool Advantage
As an international amateur free agent under the age of 25, Sasaki’s first deal will be subject to bonus pool limits. This means that the initial contract can’t exceed seven figures. While this might seem restrictive, teams can trade bonus pool amounts, giving some an advantage in luring top prospects like Sasaki. The Dodgers and Orioles stand out, with $2,502,500 and $2,147,300 in their bonus pools, respectively.
A Dark Horse Emerges: The Baltimore Orioles
An intriguing tweet from Allen mentioned a source close to Sasaki, suggesting that a small market team with a solid development setup and future plan could be an attractive destination. This got people thinking: why not Baltimore? The Orioles check all the boxes: they’re a small market team with a solid development plan and a future-oriented approach. They also have the second-most bonus pool money to offer, making them a legitimate contender.
A Perfect Storm in Baltimore
The Orioles have a history of developing young talent and are on an upward trajectory. With some rotation holes to fill and a fantastic pitching lab that has produced impressive results, the stars might be aligning in their favor. Mike Elias, the Orioles’ GM, is known for leveraging international bonus pool money in trades. This could be the perfect opportunity to put that strategy into action.
A Dream Scenario for Baltimore
While it’s unlikely that Sasaki would choose the Orioles over powerhouse teams like the Dodgers or Padres, it’s not entirely impossible. If he’s interested in a small market team with a strong development setup and a winning culture, Baltimore ticks all the boxes. With new ownership and a young core on the verge of breaking out, the Orioles’ window to win is wide open. It’s a tantalizing prospect: a top international arm joining the team to help push them over the top. We can dream, right?
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