MLB Teams Eye Roki Sasaki as Pitching Market Heats Up
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Bleed Cubbie Blue
Japanese baseball star Roki Sasaki has been officially posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines, allowing him to negotiate with MLB teams, with the Chicago Cubs among the first to express interest. Sasaki's signing is expected after January 15, 2025, when MLB's international bonus pools reset. The Cubs, who have successfully integrated Japanese players like Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, are positioning themselves as a favorable destination for Sasaki. Meanwhile, trade rumors involving Suzuki and Kyle Tucker raise questions about the Cubs' strategy and its impact on Sasaki's decision.