The Los Angeles Dodgers officially announced the signing of Roki Sasaki on Wednesday and held an introductory press conference for their new starting pitcher at Dodger Stadium.
With their moves over the past couple of days, the Dodgers have put an exclamation mark on an excellent offseason that saw them address many of their needs heading into the 2025 season.
Sasaki had interest from at least 20 different teams after being posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines in December. In the end, he chose the Dodgers over more lucrative offers from the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays.
The entire Dodgers organization believes Sasaki has the potential to become the best pitcher in the league. This includes Mookie Betts, whp believes the clubhouse being a welcoming environment for Sasaki will help facilitate his growth, according to Stephen Wade of the Associated Press:
“I’m going to get him out of his shell,” Betts said. “I’m going to laugh and joke and get him to really embrace the American culture. I think that will really help him to be the best pitcher on the planet. Because I think that everyone believes he can definitely be the best pitcher on the planet.”
While Sasaki was in Japan, there was some belief he may prefer a small market to have less media attention due to a more shy and quiet demeanor. However, players with similar traits have found success with the Dodgers, including current teammates Will Smith and Chris Taylor.
The presence of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are also useful assets for Sasaki as he adjusts to a new environment. His two new Dodgers teammates provide a nice balance of perspectives.
Entering his eighth MLB season, Ohtani has plenty of knowledge and experience when it comes to adjusting to the culture of the United States and Southern California in particular.
Meanwhile, Yamamoto was Sasaki’s position last year and can provide guidance on making the jump to MLB. He also played a pivotal role in recruiting Sasaki to the Dodgers.
Roki Sasaki believes Dodgers are best place
There were a variety of reasons why Sasaki ultimately chose the Dodgers, but picking a team where he can develop as a pitcher was chief among them.
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