Brian Cashman addressed the media today, following the official introduction of Max Fried as the newest member of the New York Yankees. During the press conference, Cashman confirmed a development in one of the most closely-watched free agency stories this offseason: star Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki will meet with the Yankees next week. Sasaki, who controversially opted out of his Nippon Professional Baseball contract to pursue a Major League Baseball career, is holding exclusive, invitation-only meetings with select teams.
The Los Angeles Dodgers remain the heavy favorites to land the 22-year-old phenom. However, conflicting reports suggest Sasaki’s preferences are still uncertain, leaving the door slightly ajar for other contenders, including the Yankees. While the odds might not favor New York, a successful in-person meeting could potentially sway the tide.
A rare talent on the market
Japan Times
Sasaki’s pitching arsenal is generating immense buzz across MLB. Armed with a fastball clocked at 102 mph and a devastating splitter, he showcased his potential last season with the Chiba Lotte Marines, posting a 2.35 ERA over 111 innings and racking up 129 strikeouts. Though his 2024 campaign saw some decline, his overall skill set still places him among the most exciting pitching prospects in years.
Unlike last offseason’s star free agent Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Sasaki’s market won’t be dictated by an astronomical price tag. Instead, teams will focus on impressing the young pitcher during the recruiting process, which gives New York a unique opportunity when they sit down with him next week. For Cashman and Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner, the stakes are high but the risks are low—if Sasaki chooses another team, the Yankees lose nothing. But if he dons the pinstripes, the possibilities are boundless.
What Sasaki could bring to the Yankees
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Additionally, Sasaki’s league-minimum salary in 2025 would provide flexibility for New York to address other needs. For instance, they could consider trading one of their controllable pitchers like Schmidt or Gil for a cost-effective offensive upgrade, improving the lineup without sacrificing pitching depth.
Sasaki’s signing would also offer long-term rewards. As a first-year Major Leaguer, he would have six years of team control with three minor-league options. If he wins Rookie of the Year, the team would gain a bonus first-round draft pick, making him an even more valuable acquisition.
Every team in baseball is vying for Sasaki, but only a few have earned an audience with the Japanese star. The Yankees’ scheduled meeting is a sign of serious interest, though Sasaki cannot officially sign until January. For now, the Yankees will aim to make the most of their opportunity and convince Sasaki that the Bronx is the perfect place to begin his MLB journey.
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