CHIBA, Japan — In an exciting development for Major League Baseball teams, Roki Sasaki, the talented pitcher from Japan, is set to enter the MLB market this offseason. The Chiba Lotte Marines publicly announced their intention to initiate the process of posting Sasaki, allowing him the opportunity to join a North American club.
Sasaki, who recently celebrated his 23rd birthday, is anticipated to be in high demand among baseball teams. This season, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing with a record of 10 wins and 5 losses, alongside a remarkable 2.35 ERA across 18 appearances. Additionally, he recorded an impressive 129 strikeouts over 111 innings pitched.
Due to his age, as he is under 25, Sasaki will be categorized as an international amateur free agent and will be subject to MLB’s international bonus pool limitations. This designation suggests that his initial contract will likely be a minor league agreement that won’t exceed seven figures.
The Chiba Lotte Marines will be compensated with a percentage fee for facilitating Sasaki’s posting, with the exact amount depending on the terms of his future contract. However, the timeline for when he will be officially posted remains uncertain, which would trigger a 45-day period during which he can negotiate a contract with a major league team.
Sasaki made significant contributions to Japan’s success in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, showcasing his impressive skillset. Known for his exceptional fastball that has reached speeds of 102.5 mph, he boasts a career record of 29 wins and 15 losses along with a 2.10 ERA over the course of four seasons with the Marines, which were shortened by injuries. Notably, he accomplished a perfect game against the Orix Buffaloes in April 2022.
“I am very thankful to my team for allowing me the opportunity to post and pursue this challenge in the MLB,” Sasaki remarked in a statement shared by the Marines on social media platform X. “My journey with the Marines has had its share of challenges, but through the unwavering support from my teammates, staff, and fans, I focused solely on baseball. I am determined to elevate my career from a minor contract to become a top player globally, living up to the expectations of everyone who has supported me throughout this journey.”