Roki Sasaki made Japanese toilet ask of Dodgers that was 'factor' in him signing

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a significant move during their clubhouse renovations by incorporating Japanese-style toilets after star pitcher Rōki Sasaki suggested it. This custom addition, part of a $100 million upgrade, emphasizes the team's willingness to cater to player preferences. Team president Stan Kasten recounted the discussion during a meeting with Sasaki, who appreciated the team's responsiveness. Sasaki's joke about the toilets turned into a serious factor in his decision to sign with the Dodgers, showcasing how small details can influence high-stakes negotiations.

During our first meeting with Roki, we were telling him about the project we had ongoing to upgrade our clubhouse and facilities. I was telling him about all the amenities we were adding. 'We're going to have this and this and this.' And he asked, 'Are you going to have Japanese-style toilets?'

Sasaki admitted the suggestion was a bit more tongue-in-cheek, but he liked that the team was willing to listen to his input and that it 'was definitely a factor' in him joining the LA team.

'Done. You got it,' Kasten recalled telling Sasaki during the meeting. 'It was a good idea that we got from a player.'

Read at New York Post